| Source | Date | Title | Summary of Report | Subject/Category | Page No./Weblink | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PREMIUM TIMES | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Bandits continue attacks in Sokoto, Katsina despite local peace deals, military operations | In southern Katsina and neighbouring Sokoto, renewed bandit attacks have killed, kidnapped, and displaced residents in recent weeks despite local peace deals and continued military operations. Security agencies report rescuing some abducted residents and disrupting planned attacks, though casualty and displacement figures remain difficult to verify independently. A camp in Sokoto sheltering thousands displaced in earlier years underscores how the renewed violence compounds existing, unresolved displacement even as some communities report improved security after negotiations. | BANDITRY; SOKOTO STATE; KATSINA STATE; PEACE DEALS | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Court adjourns el-Rufai's N1b rights suit against ICPC, police, AGF to October 27 | A Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai's N1 billion fundamental rights suit against the ICPC, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation to October 27, to let his lawyer respond to the AGF's counter-affidavit. El-Rufai is seeking an injunction barring the agencies from using items seized from his residence, their return, and general and exemplary damages. The ICPC says it opened its investigation after receiving a petition against him that led to the search of his home. | NASIR EL-RUFAI; ICPC; JUDICIARY; ANTI-CORRUPTION | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | INEC cites concerns about AI threat to 2027 elections | INEC warned that AI-generated fabricated audio, video, and images are no longer a distant, theoretical risk to the credibility of the 2027 elections, saying generative AI has made manipulated content cheaper to produce and harder to detect. Separately, the opposition ADC alleged the elections may already be compromised by attacks on opposition parties and unpunished perpetrators, while a pro-Tinubu group, Nigeria Forward, urged the North to let the South complete two presidential terms. | 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC; ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE; ADC | GUARDIAN | |||
| ARISE | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Three Killed, Six Injured As Gunmen Attack Mangu Vegetable Market, Plateau State | Gunmen opened fire on traders and market-goers at a vegetable market in Mangu, Plateau State, on Friday evening, killing three people and injuring six others, including a six-month-old infant. The Mwaghavul Youth Movement condemned the attack, said the circumstances raised concerns that Mwaghavul people were targeted, and called for an impartial investigation along with increased security around markets and other vulnerable locations. | PLATEAU STATE; MANGU; GUNMEN ATTACK; SECURITY | ARISE | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Tinubu warns police against political bias ahead of 2027 elections | President Tinubu, addressing a police retreat in Owerri through SGF George Akume, charged the Nigeria Police Force to remain strictly neutral ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that the Force must not be seen as serving any political interest. He said election security requires intelligence-led operations, protection of citizens and electoral officials, and continued investment in police training, technology, and welfare. | 2027 ELECTIONS; NIGERIA POLICE FORCE; PRESIDENT TINUBU | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | 15 political parties condemn attack on Kaduna ADC gov'ship candidate | Leaders of 15 political parties in Kaduna State visited ADC governorship candidate Isa Mohammed Ashiru at his residence to condemn a recent attack on him and his entourage, calling it a threat to democratic participation ahead of 2027. The coalition urged political actors and authorities to uphold peace and the rule of law, while Ashiru said the incident would not deter his campaign. | KADUNA STATE; ADC; POLITICAL VIOLENCE; 2027 ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| GUARDIAN | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | IMF overhauls debt risk rules for poor nations, withholds key data | The IMF Executive Board approved changes to how it assesses debt risk in low-income countries, its first review of the framework since 2017, introducing a new model to flag debt-stress risk and tools for assessing domestic debt and climate-related financing pressures. However, the Fund will temporarily withhold the probability thresholds and individual country risk signals underpinning the new model, prompting some board members to push for fuller disclosure. | IMF; DEBT SUSTAINABILITY; LOW-INCOME COUNTRIES; INTERNATIONAL | GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 22ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | US TV networks halt Trump coverage in revolt over White House ban | America's top five broadcasters suspended pooled White House television coverage of President Trump in solidarity with CNN after Trump barred CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House and branded critical media a "cancer." The three outlets sued in a Washington federal court seeking to have the ban ruled unconstitutional, while Vice President JD Vance accused them of spreading "left-wing propaganda." | UNITED STATES; PRESS FREEDOM; DONALD TRUMP; MEDIA | VANGUARD | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Nigeria to address UNGA on Thursday | Vice President Kashim Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement at the UN General Assembly on Thursday afternoon, his third consecutive year representing President Tinubu at the annual debate. Tinubu directed Shettima to again lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st UNGA, where Shettima will also hold bilateral meetings alongside a delegation including Rivers Governor Fubara and Zamfara Governor Lawal. | UNGA; VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA; FOREIGN POLICY | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: APM names retired NNPC chief as Adamawa deputy governorship candidate | The Allied Peoples Movement unveiled Safriel Glah, a retired NNPC general manager with over 34 years in the oil and gas sector, as running mate to governorship candidate Abdulrahman Haske in Adamawa State's 2027 race. Party leaders described the pairing as combining private-sector enterprise with public administration experience to boost APM's prospects in the North-east state. | ADAMAWA STATE; APM; 2027 ELECTIONS; DEPUTY GOVERNORSHIP | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Plateau 2027: NDC splits over competing governorship primary results | The NDC in Plateau State is embroiled in a dispute over its 2027 governorship candidate after national officials declared Da Jonathan Sunday Akuns winner of a substitution primary, while the state chairman held a separate meeting that a stakeholder alleges produced a rival nominee sent to INEC. The state chairman denies wrongdoing, and the party's national secretary says only the nationally endorsed name, Akuns, was forwarded to INEC, warning of legal action if a different name was acted upon. | PLATEAU STATE; NDC; 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ebonyi PDP guber candidate raises security concern over alleged threat to Running Mate | Ebonyi PDP governorship candidate Ifeanyi Odii alerted security agencies to protect his running mate, Patrick Mgbebu, a former APC member and state assembly lawmaker, ahead of the February 2027 election, calling for investigation of any credible threats. Odii urged all parties and security agencies to keep the campaign season peaceful and free of intimidation. | EBONYI STATE; PDP; 2027 ELECTIONS; POLITICAL SECURITY | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | APC campaign council challenges Obi over Anambra debt claims | The APC Presidential Campaign Council accused NDC candidate Peter Obi of misleading Nigerians about Anambra's finances, citing the state government's disclosure that Obi's administration spent about $4.05 billion and left $92.35 million in outstanding external loans as of June 2026. Obi's camp disputes the characterisation, arguing the loans were federally negotiated development facilities rather than personally contracted debt, and an independent fact-check cited in the report found several facilities involved the Federal Government as the original borrower. | PETER OBI; ANAMBRA STATE; APC; 2027 ELECTIONS | GUARDIAN | |||
| ARISE | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Tinubu Extends Working Vacation, To Return To Nigeria Weekend | President Tinubu has extended his working vacation, begun August 30 in London and Paris, and is expected back in Nigeria this weekend, the Presidency said, adding that he has continued directing government business including ordering a panel to probe the deaths of 37 miners in NSCDC custody in Minna. The Presidency dismissed as "irresponsible" claims by Atiku Abubakar and a US lobbying firm about Tinubu's UNGA absence, while VP Shettima represents him in New York. | PRESIDENT TINUBU; PRESIDENCY; UNGA; NIGER STATE MINERS | ARISE | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Makinde Predicts APM Victory, Receives APC Defectors In Oyo | Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde formally received thousands of APC defectors into the Allied Peoples Movement at a rally in Ibadan, predicting the party would win widely in 2027, and urged APC governorship candidate Sharafadeen Alli to focus on APM's Bimbo Adekanmbi rather than criticising his administration. Makinde also linked Oyo's use of diesel-powered streetlights to what he called Tinubu's unfulfilled promise to fix Nigeria's electricity supply. | OYO STATE; APM; GOVERNOR MAKINDE; 2027 ELECTIONS | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger Miners' Deaths: Police Take Over Scene, Begin Probe | The Niger State Police Command took over the scene where 37 artisanal miners died in NSCDC custody in Minna and began a forensic investigation, following a directive from Inspector-General Olatunji Disu to establish the circumstances and ensure accountability. This follows the NSCDC parading its suspended Niger State commandant and other officers linked to the deaths. | NIGER STATE; NSCDC; MINERS DEATHS; POLICE INVESTIGATION | CHANNELS TV | |||
| VANGUARD | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: 'We can't keep turning the other cheek' - ADC warns against attacks on members | The ADC warned it is nearing the limit of its restraint over documented attacks on its members and property across states including Kaduna, Kebbi, Edo, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi between July 2025 and September 2026, saying inadequate police response could push members toward self-help. The party is keeping a private record of incidents for possible legal action and international engagement, and challenged President Tinubu to clarify or withdraw his remark that "all is fair in politics." | ADC; POLITICAL VIOLENCE; 2027 ELECTIONS; NIGERIA POLICE FORCE | VANGUARD | |||
| ARISE | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | CNN, Politico And MS NOW Sue Trump Administration Over White House Ban | CNN, Politico, and MS NOW sued the Trump administration in a Washington federal court after being barred from the White House, arguing the ban is an unconstitutional violation of press freedom, following President Trump's accusation that the outlets published "fiction or lies." The lawsuit seeks a quick ruling against the ban as major US broadcasters moved to suspend pooled White House coverage in solidarity. | UNITED STATES; PRESS FREEDOM; DONALD TRUMP; LITIGATION | ARISE | |||
| VANGUARD | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Illegal Miners' Deaths: NSCDC Parades Detained Commandant, 23 Others | The NSCDC paraded suspended Niger State Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye and 23 other personnel at its Abuja headquarters over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in its custody, with Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi ordering the corps' flag flown at half-mast for three days from 20 September. Spokesman Babawale Afolabi said three more officers had been added to an earlier list of 21 suspects, bringing the total to 24 personnel held since 17 September for interrogation pending referral to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; ILLEGAL MINING | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Fresh Plateau Attacks: About 8 Passengers Killed | At least nine people, including a pastor and five bus passengers, were killed in attacks between Saturday night and Sunday morning in Barkin Ladi, Riyom and neighbouring Plateau communities, triggering the evacuation of women and children amid continuing gunfire around Dorowa Bubuje and Kantoma. Governor Caleb Mutfwang vowed his administration would "not be defeated by violence or the gun," while Premium Times reported troops had since arrested 11 suspects in connection with the violence. | SECURITY; PLATEAU; COMMUNAL VIOLENCE | VANGUARD | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Bandits Gun Down Mentally Ill Man, Abduct 28 In Sokoto Community | Bandits killed three people, including a mentally ill man who resisted abduction, and abducted 28 others during a three-hour attack on Kagara community in Goronyo LGA, Sokoto State, on Saturday night. Residents said 10 captives were released the next morning and two more in the afternoon, leaving 16 still held, while police confirmed three deaths and said nine of the abducted had escaped captivity. | SECURITY; SOKOTO; BANDITRY | DAILY TRUST | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Troops Rescue 23 Kidnapped Victims, Arrest Four Suspected Lakurawa Members In Sokoto | Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma rescued 23 kidnapped victims and arrested four suspected Lakurawa terrorists in separate operations across Wurno, Sabon Birni and Illela LGAs of Sokoto State on 20 September, recovering six rustled cattle and evacuating two injured civilians for treatment. The military said the operations, which forced attackers to flee in Sabon Gari and along the Isa-Kwanar Isa-Shinkafi road, demonstrated sustained pressure on terrorist elements across the state. | SECURITY; SOKOTO; LAKURAWA | CHANNELS TV | |||
| VANGUARD | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Presidential Campaign Council: 'We Don't Need Your Validation' — OK Movement Tells NDC | The Obidient-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement rejected NDC National Chairman Moses Cleopas's criticism of its unilaterally unveiled 59-member presidential campaign council, with National Secretary Saadatu Sani insisting the grassroots movement, which claims about 2.5 million registered members, needs no party validation to campaign for the NDC ticket. The NDC had disowned the council on Saturday, and Sani demanded Cleopas withdraw his remarks and apologise to council head John Ughulu. | 2027 ELECTIONS; NDC; OK MOVEMENT | VANGUARD | |||
| ARISE | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Tinubu Moves To Define Wike's Role As FCT, Rivers Campaign Coordinator | President Tinubu is moving to formally make FCT Minister Nyesom Wike coordinator of his re-election campaign in Rivers State and the FCT without absorbing him into the APC hierarchy, an arrangement designed to defuse his standoff with APC governors over the Rainbow Coalition. Former Zamfara governor Abdulaziz Yari will serve as Presidential Campaign Council Director-General, though Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy Jibrin Barau will not report to him, reflecting an emerging structure with separate power centres. | 2027 ELECTIONS; WIKE; APC CAMPAIGN | ARISE | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Presidency Explains Tinubu's Absence At UNGA | Presidential aide Ademola Osodi dismissed as "old chestnut" politics any suggestion that a past US legal history barred President Tinubu from attending the 81st UN General Assembly, insisting there was "absolutely no impediment" and citing his own past US trips with the president. Nigeria's UN envoy Jimoh Ibrahim said the country would retain its front-row seat with Vice President Shettima and Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu representing Tinubu, who is focused on domestic economic and security priorities. | 2027 ELECTIONS; UNGA; TINUBU | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Explain Your Fuel Subsidy Plan, APC PCC Tells Atiku | The APC Presidential Campaign Council, in a statement by Dele Alake, demanded Atiku Abubakar disclose the legal basis, cost (estimated at N17-21 trillion annually) and funding source of his proposed "production subsidy" for locally refined petrol, asking whether it would fall foul of the Petroleum Industry Act. The council contrasted the proposal with the administration's CNG and electric-transit push and noted Atiku's 2022 description of the old subsidy as "fraudulent," pressing him to reconcile that with his August pledge to "restore it." | 2027 ELECTIONS; APC; FUEL SUBSIDY | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| ARISE | 21ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Trump Threatens Iran With Economic Destruction, Leadership Elimination Unless Deal Is Reached | President Trump told Fox News the choice for Iran was to reach a deal or face having its economy left to "rot" or its leadership eliminated, while signalling openness to meeting Iranian President Pezeshkian at the UN General Assembly this week. Iran's military warned any fresh US strike would trigger "painful" regional retaliation, as the escalation follows the collapse of a June memorandum and comes days after Houthi forces claimed missile and drone strikes on Riyadh. | IRAN; UNITED STATES; TRUMP | ARISE | |||
| VANGUARD | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Effurun Attack: Keyamo Fingers NDC Thugs, Vows Action | Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo accused thugs loyal to the NDC of vandalising campaign billboards and looting shops with weapons in his Effurun community, Uvwie LGA of Delta State, on Friday, 18 September, alleging complicit law-enforcement officers were on the scene and vowing to petition the Inspector-General of Police. He said he wanted the "double standards" in reactions to political violence exposed, drawing a comparison to the earlier blockade of Peter Obi's convoy in Benue. | 2027 ELECTIONS; DELTA STATE; POLITICAL VIOLENCE | VANGUARD | |||
| PUNCH | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Gunmen Kill, Behead Village Head In Kebbi | Gunmen attacked Lafagu community in Bagudo LGA of Kebbi State on Sunday and killed and beheaded the village head, police spokesman SP Bashir Usman confirmed, saying some arrests had already been made. Residents said the attackers' identity remained uncertain, with preliminary findings suggesting the killing may be linked to an armed ethnic militia rather than bandits or Lakurawa insurgents amid rising tension between Fulani, Kambarawa and Bargawa communities in the area. | SECURITY; KEBBI; TRADITIONAL RULER | PUNCH | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger Miners' Deaths: Gov Bago Seeks Executive Order To Ban Mining In Some Areas | Niger State Governor Umaru Bago called for a presidential or ministerial executive order banning mining in identified problem locations, telling Channels' Sunday Politics he could only advocate, not order arrests. Bago disclosed 67 artisanal miners were initially detained before 37 died, said the site was an unlicensed former housing estate, and cited UNICEF projections that child labour in mining could empty JSS1 classrooms in the state by 2027. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; ILLEGAL MINING | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger, Ondo Deaths: Falana Calls For Prosecution Of Suspects | Senior Advocate Femi Falana urged the Attorneys-General of Niger and Ondo States to prosecute those responsible for two separate mass-death incidents, comparing the Niger case to the 1980 suffocation of 50 suspects in a Lagos police "Black Maria" van and calling for detention facilities to meet the UN's Nelson Mandela Rules. He also urged prosecution of the 15 people NAFDAC said were arrested over alcoholic concoctions blamed for 48 deaths in Ondo, calling official outrage over the Niger deaths "hypocritical" given routine detention overcrowding nationwide. | NSCDC; ONDO STATE; LEGAL ACCOUNTABILITY | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Atiku Demands Explanation For Tinubu's Third Straight UNGA Absence | Atiku Abubakar demanded President Tinubu explain his third consecutive UNGA absence after the Presidency confirmed Vice President Shettima would again lead Nigeria's delegation, questioning whether a past US forfeiture case linked to Tinubu's name had any bearing while stressing he was not alleging any travel ban. He also questioned a reported $9 million lobbying spend and a seat reportedly secured for Tinubu near President Trump that went unused, arguing repeated delegation cannot substitute for personal presidential engagement. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ATIKU ABUBAKAR; UNGA | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Tinubu's UNGA Absence Won't Change Nigeria's Role As Giant Of Africa — Aide | Presidential aide Ademola Osodi dismissed criticism of Tinubu's UNGA absence on Channels' Sunday Politics, saying the president was focused on domestic economy and security issues and that Nigeria's international standing was unaffected, since the country engages through multiple platforms including BRICS. Osodi rejected claims Tinubu had US travel restrictions as an "old chestnut," recalling accompanying the president on past US trips including a Los Angeles transit en route to Japan. | 2027 ELECTIONS; TINUBU; UNGA | CHANNELS TV | |||
| ARISE | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Shettima To Lead Nigeria's Delegation To 81st UNGA In New York | President Tinubu mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation, including Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, to the 81st UN General Assembly General Debate running 22-28 September under the theme "Restoring trust, managing transformation." Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria's national statement, join Right to Development and climate-action side meetings, and hold bilateral talks before returning to Nigeria. | 2027 ELECTIONS; UNGA; SHETTIMA | ARISE | |||
| VANGUARD | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Over 6,000 NDC Members Defect To PDP In Enugu | More than 6,000 NDC members from all 260 wards and 17 LGAs of Enugu State, led by Godwin Obasi, formally defected to the PDP, citing the NDC's choice of "unpopular candidates." PDP governorship candidate Uche Nnaji welcomed the group and attacked the Enugu government over unpaid pensions and multiple taxation, claiming the state had received more federal allocation under Tinubu in three years than three previous governors received in 24. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ENUGU; DEFECTION | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Bye-Elections: APC Wins 4 Seats, APM Wins 1 Across Gombe, Kano, Bauchi And Delta | INEC declared results of Saturday's five legislative bye-elections, with the APC's Usman Maijama'a Kallamu winning the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye federal seat with 41,121 of 46,551 valid votes, while the party also took Kano's Dawakin Kudu, Bauchi's Disina and Delta's Udu seats; the APM pulled the day's upset, defeating the APC by 4,744 votes in Bauchi's Sakwa constituency. INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, monitoring from the commission's situation room, said the exercise offered operational lessons ahead of 2027 and dismissed speculation linking a recent foreign trip to plotting a presidential-election rigging scheme. | 2027 ELECTIONS; BYE-ELECTIONS; INEC | VANGUARD | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Lagos APC Orders Candidates To Stay In Nigeria Until 2027 Polls | Lagos APC chairman Cornelius Ojelabi barred all party candidates from travelling outside Nigeria until after the 2027 elections, issuing the directive at the inauguration of the APC's Tinubu-Hamzat Campaign Council in Ikeja, which formally opened the party's state-wide campaign. Ojelabi said the party was targeting five million votes in Lagos through grassroots mobilisation, and urged members to keep the campaign "devoid of hatred, thuggery and violence." | 2027 ELECTIONS; LAGOS APC; CAMPAIGN | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | By-Election: Bauchi Police Arrest 50 With Guns, Machetes At Polling Units | Bauchi Police arrested 50 armed men claiming to belong to a state-owned security outfit at polling units in Disina State Constituency during Saturday's bye-election, despite an earlier directive barring quasi-security and vigilante groups from election coverage. Police spokesman SP Nafiu Habib said cutlasses, sticks and firearms were recovered, and Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu ordered the suspects transferred to the State CID for prosecution. | 2027 ELECTIONS; BAUCHI; ELECTION SECURITY | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | NDC Campaign Council Demands Probe Into Attack On One Million-Man March In Delta | The Deacon Chris Campaign Council demanded a probe into Friday's disruption of an NDC "One Million-Man March" in Warri/Effurun, alleging thugs armed with firearms, bottles, knives and stones confronted marchers at several locations and that an individual carrying an AK-47 was disarmed and handed to police. Five participants were injured, the council said, welcoming the Delta State Government's directive that security agencies investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable. | 2027 ELECTIONS; DELTA STATE; POLITICAL VIOLENCE | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | PDP Governorship Candidate Accuses Otti Of Neglecting Abia Workers | PDP Abia governorship candidate Kelechi Anosike accused Governor Alex Otti of neglecting workers despite increased federal allocations, telling reporters in Abuja the state had the resources to raise wages and improve welfare and pledging not to sack public servants for political reasons if elected in 2027. Anosike said continuity, fairness and professionalism would guide his administration's approach to the civil service. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ABIA STATE; PDP | GUARDIAN | |||
| ARISE | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Otti Rules Out Senate Bid, Says He'll Quit Politics After 2031 | Abia Governor Alex Otti said he would retire from active politics after completing his tenure in 2031, ruling out a Senate bid and vowing not to become a political godfather, telling supporters in Umuahia that his successor would emerge by merit rather than a "sit-tight" system. Otti said his administration had focused on restoring Aba and Umuahia before extending development to the hinterlands over its roughly 39 months in office. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ABIA STATE; ALEX OTTI | ARISE | |||
| ARISE | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Peter Obi Cautions Politicians Against Unrealistic Campaign Promises | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi urged rival politicians to avoid unrealistic campaign promises they cannot fulfil in office, calling for issue-based, demand-driven campaigns at a town hall with NDC supporters in Kaduna State. Obi pledged to spend his annual holidays in Nigeria rather than abroad if elected, using the periods to visit communities facing insecurity, while running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso urged voter participation in the electoral process. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; NDC | ARISE | |||
| VANGUARD | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | PDP Demands Probe Of Alleged Attack On Campaign Train In Ogun | Ogun PDP chairman Abayomi Tella demanded an IGP-led probe into an alleged attack on the party's campaign train at Ososa, Odogbolu LGA, on Wednesday, saying hoodlums fired gunshots and threw objects at convoy vehicles and that police had since arrested five or six PDP members who were meant to be complainants. The APC's Ogun publicity secretary separately alleged the shooting involved security personnel attached to PDP governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu and also called for a police investigation. | 2027 ELECTIONS; OGUN STATE; PDP | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Polls: Appeal Court Validates Registration Of NDC As Political Party | The Court of Appeal in Abuja, in a split 2-1 decision, set aside a Federal High Court judgment that had ordered the NDC's deregistration, ruling the lower court abused its own judicial hierarchy by sitting in appeal over its earlier ruling. NDC leader Seriake Dickson hailed the decision as protecting Nigeria's democratic space, saying the party's registration "remains valid and subsisting" for all 2027 elections, while dissenting Justice Okon Abang upheld the deregistration. | 2027 ELECTIONS; NDC; COURT RULING | VANGUARD | |||
| PUNCH | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Ekiti ADC, NDC Candidates Condemn Attack On Campaign Office | ADC senatorial candidate Funso Ayeni raised alarm over the vandalisation of his campaign office in Ido-Ekiti, calling on security agencies to investigate, while the NDC's rival candidate for the same seat separately condemned the attack as "political intolerance" alien to Ekiti's peaceful character. Both candidates urged Governor Biodun Oyebanji's government to maintain a peaceful political atmosphere, warning against a repeat of the violence experienced in Osun's election season. | 2027 ELECTIONS; EKITI STATE; POLITICAL VIOLENCE | PUNCH | |||
| PUNCH | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Igboho Declares Support For Osun Accord Reps Candidate | Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Igboho declared support for Accord Party House of Representatives candidate Pelumi Olajengbesi in Osun's Oriade/Obokun federal constituency, recalling that Olajengbesi provided him legal representation after his 2021 raid and Benin Republic detention. Olajengbesi, a former campaign spokesperson for Governor Ademola Adeleke, is set to challenge incumbent APC lawmaker Wole Oke in 2027. | 2027 ELECTIONS; OSUN STATE; ACCORD PARTY | PUNCH | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: APM Campaign Council To Begin Zonal Town Hall Meetings In Katsina | The Makinde/Daura Presidential Campaign Organisation announced its nationwide zonal town hall meetings would begin in Katsina State, part of grassroots consultations spanning all six geopolitical zones under the "Reset Nigeria" message, spokesman Tony Ehilebo said in Abuja. Ehilebo cited the APM's Bauchi bye-election win as evidence of momentum for Governor Seyi Makinde and running mate Lawal Daura ahead of the 2027 presidential race. | 2027 ELECTIONS; APM; SEYI MAKINDE | DAILY TRUST | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | US Fears Rapid Escalation In Mideast After Houthis Attack Riyadh | The US warned Saudi-Houthi hostilities could "escalate rapidly" after Yemen's Houthis fired ballistic and cruise missiles and drones at Riyadh and Aramco's Yanbu facility on Saturday, the first strike threatening the Saudi capital since fighting resumed in July; a Saudi-led coalition said the Riyadh missile was intercepted, while President Trump cut short a Camp David trip to return to the White House. The UN says the Houthi offensive to seize Yemen's Red Sea coast has left hundreds dead and displaced over 110,000 people, days after Washington approved a $24.3 billion F-35 sale to Riyadh. | YEMEN; SAUDI ARABIA; HOUTHIS | CHANNELS TV | |||
| ARISE | 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Trump Floats New Names For Artificial Intelligence, Asks Public To Vote | President Trump questioned the term "Artificial Intelligence" as inaccurate and ineloquent, proposing "Superior Intelligence," "Extreme Intelligence" or "Supreme Intelligence" as alternatives and inviting the public to vote on his social media platform. Trump did not indicate any formal change was being considered by his administration, presenting the proposal as an informal poll on how to describe the ongoing technology's development. | UNITED STATES; TRUMP; ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE | ARISE | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 19TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | APC Challenges Atiku To Present Alternatives To Tinubu Reforms | APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka challenged Atiku Abubakar to present detailed policy alternatives to President Tinubu's economic reforms rather than only criticising them, speaking on Channels' Politics Today in response to the ADC candidate's attacks on the administration's handling of the economy. Morka argued Atiku had yet to explain concretely how he would improve Nigerians' living standards if elected. | 2027 ELECTIONS; APC; ATIKU ABUBAKAR | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 19TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Peter Obi's SSG Reacts To Debt Controversy, Releases Document | Oseloka Obaze, Anambra's former Secretary to the State Government, said Peter Obi left N86.6 billion in state coffers in 2014 and released a handover letter he said was signed by incoming Governor Willie Obiano, after Anambra's finance commissioner claimed Governor Charles Soludo's administration was still repaying debts Obi incurred. Premium Times noted Obiano's acknowledgement of the letter does not by itself confirm the funds were actually available, as the handover was never jointly verified by the outgoing and incoming administrations. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ANAMBRA DEBT | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 19TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | IGP Disu Assures Thorough Probe Into Deaths Of 37 Persons In NSCDC Custody | Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu, on a condolence visit to Governor Umaru Bago in Minna, assured that police would work closely with the NSCDC and state government to establish the circumstances of the 37 deaths, saying the force had already secured the scene to preserve evidence. Disu appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, while Bago disclosed the state had suspended all mining activities pending the investigation's outcome. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; POLICE INVESTIGATION | CHANNELS TV | |||
| PUNCH | 19TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | US Charges Three Nigerians, 13 Others Over Election Crimes | The US Department of Justice charged three Nigerian nationals, Gladys Adaeze Okafor, Helen Sayen Adams and Joshua Nmelichukwu Akpom, among 16 foreign nationals over alleged illegal voting, false citizenship claims and related naturalisation, passport and wire fraud offences across several federal districts. Okafor, a lawful permanent resident in Massachusetts, was accused of voting in both the 2022 midterms and 2024 general election, while the DOJ stressed the charges do not constitute findings of guilt. | UNITED STATES; NIGERIANS; ELECTION FRAUD | PUNCH | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger State Imposes 24-Hour Curfew After Suspects Die In NSCDC Custody | Niger State imposed a 24-hour curfew across Minna from Friday evening after protests turned violent over the deaths of more than 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody, suspending all mining activity, cancelling a planned APC rally and standing down Commandant Suberu Aniviye's team. Governor Umaru Bago set up a probe committee chaired by his deputy Yakubu Garba, while President Tinubu ordered a comprehensive federal probe and said "there must be accountability," as security forces used live rounds to disperse protesters, some of whom tried to torch government buildings in the Tunga area. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; CURFEW | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | NAFDAC Links Ondo Mass Deaths To Methanol-Contaminated Alcoholic Concoctions | NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye said laboratory tests found high concentrations of toxic methanol, and cannabis indica in 11 of 15 samples, in locally brewed alcoholic and herbal concoctions blamed for 48 deaths and 182 illnesses across Odigbo and Irele LGAs of Ondo State since early September, with five victims left totally blind and two partially blind. NAFDAC said 15 people had been arrested over the production and sale of the drinks, with confirmatory toxicology testing continuing. | ONDO STATE; NAFDAC; PUBLIC HEALTH | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Mambilla Verdict: APC Demands Atiku's Withdrawal From Presidential Race | The APC Presidential Campaign Council, through spokesman Dele Alake, called on Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 race after an ICC tribunal in Paris rejected Sunrise Power's claims over the Mambilla hydropower project and details emerged of a $500,000 payment its promoter made to Atiku's former wife in 2003; the tribunal itself did not find that Atiku personally received a bribe or ordered the payment, a distinction the council's characterisation went beyond. President Tinubu separately hailed the ruling as clearing the project's biggest legal hurdle, crediting former Presidents Obasanjo and Buhari's roles in the arbitration. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ATIKU ABUBAKAR; MAMBILLA | GUARDIAN | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger Govt Cancels APC Rally, Declares Three Days Mourning For NSCDC Custody Deaths | The Niger State Government cancelled a weekend APC political rally scheduled for Minna following the deaths of 37 detainees in NSCDC custody, with Governor Umaru Bago declaring a three-day mourning period and extending condolences to the victims' families. The government said the decision reflected respect for the deceased and directed relevant authorities to take necessary steps regarding the incident. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; APC | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Gov Oborevwori Orders Probe As Suspected Thugs Disrupt NDC Mobilisation Campaign In Delta | An NDC "One Million March" in Effurun, Delta State, was disrupted when a confrontation broke out between marchers and men described by organisers as suspected APC thugs, with online videos showing a chaotic scene along Airport Road. The Delta State Government condemned the violence, and Commissioner Charles Aniagwu said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had directed security agencies to investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable, insisting every party retained the right to campaign peacefully anywhere in the state. | 2027 ELECTIONS; DELTA STATE; POLITICAL VIOLENCE | CHANNELS TV | |||
| VANGUARD | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | FG Suspends NSCDC Commandant Over Miners' Deaths In Custody | Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the immediate suspension of Niger State NSCDC Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye following the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna on 15-16 September. The minister described the incident as unfortunate and ordered a full-scale investigation while commiserating with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the families of the deceased; NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi subsequently directed the suspended commandant and his heads of operations, mining, legal, intelligence and investigation to report to a panel of inquiry in Abuja, and a new commandant has been sent to take over the state command. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; ILLEGAL MINING | VANGUARD | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger Detention Deaths: Interior Minister Orders Probe, NSCDC State Commandant, Key Officers Step Aside | The Minister of Interior directed NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi to conduct a full-scale, transparent investigation into the deaths of illegal miners in the corps' custody in Niger State, prompting Audi to order the state commandant and the heads of operations, mining, legal, intelligence and investigation to step aside and report to NSCDC headquarters in Abuja to appear before a panel of inquiry. The corps said personnel found to have breached the law or professional standards would face administrative, disciplinary or criminal sanctions, while a new commandant has been sent to assume command of the Niger State Command. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; ILLEGAL MINING | CHANNELS TV | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Bandits Kill 13 in Zamfara, Causing Residents in 3 Villages to Flee Homes | Bandits killed at least 13 people and sacked the villages of Dandallah, Tudu Gabas and Unguwar Majidadi in Dansadau Emirate, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, in reprisal after local vigilantes killed a bandit kingpin and some of his men. Residents said the bandits accused the villages of colluding with the vigilantes, and that 80 to 90 per cent of residents had fled to Dansadau town; the Zamfara Police Command said it was making inquiries but had not responded further by the time of filing. | SECURITY; BANDITRY; ZAMFARA | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | INEC Seeks Increased PWD Participation As Only 6 Contest N'Assembly Seats | INEC has begun engaging organisations of persons with disabilities to boost their participation in the 2027 elections after a Daily Trust analysis found only six PWDs, all House of Representatives aspirants, among the 4,863 National Assembly candidates on the commission's final lists, with no senatorial candidates identified as disabled. Acting INEC chairman Rhoda Gumus cited accessibility measures including Braille ballot guides and sign-language interpretation, while political scientist Abubakar Kari described Nigeria's 2018 Disability Act as "legislative tokenism" that has gone largely unimplemented. | 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC; DISABILITY | DAILY TRUST | |||
| GUARDIAN | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Govs, 36 Assemblies Decide Fate Of State Police, Consider Amended Bill | The National Assembly has transmitted the Constitution (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, providing for State Police, to all 36 State Houses of Assembly for concurrence, with at least 24 assemblies needed to approve it. Security expert Charles Omole warned that replicating the Nigeria Police Force's current culture across 36 states could worsen insecurity absent strong safeguards, while police reform committee chairman Olu Ogunsakin expressed optimism that all 36 states would back the reform; the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures said assemblies were still awaiting formal transmission of the bills before beginning deliberations. | STATE POLICE; NATIONAL ASSEMBLY; CONSTITUTION | GUARDIAN | |||
| THISDAY | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Obi: If Elected President, I'll Correct Bad Policies Initiated By Tinubu's Govt | In an extensive Arise News interview, NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi said he would fight corruption in the subsidy regime, redirect subsidies to agriculture and productive sectors, and invest heavily in the North's agricultural potential and education if elected. He pledged a single term limited to four years, no new presidential buildings, no foreign holidays, a presidency personally engaged in security crises rather than run from Abuja, and said he would not pay ransom to kidnappers, while reiterating his belief that he won the 2023 election and vowing to respect the outcome of a free, fair and credible 2027 poll. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; INTERVIEW | THISDAY | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | More Nigerians Return From South Africa | The Federal Government facilitated the return of 33 more distressed Nigerians, including 16 minors, from South Africa on a flight that arrived on 16 September, amid renewed Afrophobic attacks on Africans in the country. Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Oluwafemi Adeniyi said this was the 12th consular evacuation since the exercise began on 10 June 2026, bringing the total number evacuated to 1,716, with the government fully funding about 81 per cent of the exercise and the rest supported by Nigerian professional groups in South Africa. | SOUTH AFRICA; AFROPHOBIA; DIASPORA EVACUATION | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 18TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Scores Killed As Houthis, Yemen Govt, Saudi Arabia Trade Attacks | Fresh fighting in Yemen killed at least 23 government soldiers in Houthi missile and drone attacks and 40 Houthi fighters in Saudi airstrikes over 24 hours, while Saudi Arabia recorded its first fatality from Houthi strikes on its territory after shrapnel from a downed drone killed one person in Taif. The escalation follows the Iran-backed Houthis' new offensive that seized the country's Red Sea coast and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, compounding pressure on Gulf oil shipping routes already affected by Iran's restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz; the EU condemned the Houthi strikes and urged an end to the military action. | YEMEN; HOUTHIS; SAUDI ARABIA | DAILY TRUST | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Rainbow Coalition: APC South-East Caucus Backs Governors, Asks Wike To Apologise For 'Disrespect' | APC leaders in the South-east, led by National Vice Chairman Ijeomah Arodiogbu and the zone's state chairmen, demanded that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike apologise to APC governors over his criticism of their political capacity and opposition to his Rainbow Coalition, saying the governors had proven their ability to mobilise votes for President Tinubu in 2023. The group accused Wike of insulting and plotting to remove sitting progressive governors, insisted he had no authority over elected governors, and reaffirmed solidarity with all APC governors and candidates ahead of 2027. | 2027 ELECTIONS; RAINBOW COALITION; APC SOUTH-EAST | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Shettima Clarifies Remarks On Northern Governors' Support For President Tinubu In 2023 | The Office of the Vice President clarified that Kashim Shettima's earlier remark that only six northern governors supported President Tinubu referred strictly to consultations before the June 2022 APC presidential primary, not to the governors' stance after Tinubu's emergence as candidate or during the 2023 general election. Media aide Stanley Nkwocha said all northern APC governors rallied behind Tinubu after the primary and played vital roles in his victory, and that Shettima holds all northern governors and APC leaders in high regard, regretting any contrary interpretation of his comments. | 2023 ELECTIONS; SHETTIMA; NORTHERN GOVERNORS | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Dickson: Political Differences Must Not Trigger Violence Ahead Of 2027 | NDC National Leader Henry Seriake Dickson warned political actors against turning 2027 election disputes into violence, intimidation or restrictions on citizens' democratic rights, saying "we are not enemies, we are fellow Nigerians who disagree," while receiving notification of his selection as LEADERSHIP Newspaper's Politician of the Year 2026. The former Bayelsa governor urged President Tinubu to lead efforts to reduce political tensions and ensure security agencies provide a level playing field for all parties, and reaffirmed the NDC's commitment to contesting fully in the 2027 elections alongside Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. | 2027 ELECTIONS; NDC; POLITICAL VIOLENCE | GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Lagos APC Unveils 2027 Campaign Council, Names Sanwo-Olu, Fashola, Ambode | The Lagos APC unveiled its 2027 campaign council with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as advisory council chairman and campaign council chairman, and former governors Babatunde Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode as co-chairmen of the advisory council, alongside Tinubu's Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Former Senator Musiliu Obanikoro was named Director-General of the campaign council, with governorship candidate Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as deputy chairman, ahead of the council's formal inauguration on 18 September at the APC Secretariat in Ikeja. | 2027 ELECTIONS; LAGOS APC; CAMPAIGN COUNCIL | VANGUARD | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Wike Says Otti Backing Tinubu; Abia Govt Says 'Confirmation Will Come At Appropriate Time' | FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said Abia Governor Alex Otti is backing President Tinubu's 2027 re-election, arguing that support for Tinubu does not mean the Labour Party would stop fielding candidates elsewhere, but Abia Information Commissioner Okey Kanu stopped short of confirming this, saying only that Otti and Tinubu have a "very cordial" relationship and that any definitive declaration would come from the governor himself. The exchange comes amid mixed signals from other Abia politicians, including Senator Orji Kalu's apparent softened stance on an APC takeover of the state and continuing ambiguity over Otti's 2027 political alignment. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ABIA; OTTI | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PUNCH | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | I Won't Be A Godfather, Abia Voters Will Pick My Successor - Otti | Abia Governor Alex Otti said he will not seek to influence his succession after completing a second term in 2031, insisting the state's voters should choose whoever is best for the job rather than perpetuating "sit-tight" politics. Speaking in Umuahia while receiving former SDP governorship candidate Ngozi Johnson-Chukwunenye into the Labour Party, Otti said he does not tolerate godfathers, cited his administration's Leadership Academy for grooming young leaders, and defended his record of restoring Aba and Umuahia against unnamed critics. | ABIA; ALEX OTTI; SUCCESSION | PUNCH | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Obi-Kwankwaso Movement Unveils 59-Member Presidential Campaign Council | The Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement unveiled a 59-member Presidential Campaign Council covering all six geopolitical zones, the FCT and the 36 states to mobilise support for NDC candidate Peter Obi and running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of 2027. Movement Director-General John Ughulu was named to head the campaign council, with National Secretary Saadatu Sani in the leadership and zonal coordinators named for each region, as the council takes on directorates covering mobilisation, women affairs, strategy, security, legal affairs, IT and administration. | 2027 ELECTIONS; OBI-KWANKWASO MOVEMENT | DAILY TRUST | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | NSCDC Confirms Deaths Of Suspected Illegal Miners In Niger Custody | The NSCDC's Niger State Command confirmed that some suspected illegal miners arrested during a "burst operation" in M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto Village on 15-16 September died in custody in the early hours of 17 September, in what Commandant Suberu Aniviye described as a suspected disease outbreak. The bodies were deposited at General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination, and the corps said it was working with other security agencies and appealed for calm from the families of the deceased and the public. | NSCDC; NIGER STATE; ILLEGAL MINING | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | If Elected, I Will End Insecurity In Two Years Or Resign, Says Zamfara NDC Gov Candidate | NDC governorship candidate in Zamfara, Senator Kabir Marafa, pledged to end insecurity in the state within two years of taking office in 2027 or voluntarily resign, citing his experience as a former commissioner and senator in understanding the state's problems. Speaking to the Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ in Gusau, Marafa also donated campaign vehicles to party executives and urged Zamfara residents to support the NDC's candidates in the 2027 elections. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ZAMFARA; NDC | CHANNELS TV | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: APC Inaugurates Campaign Council In Ogun, Orders Immediate Grassroots Mobilisation | Ogun State APC inaugurated its 2027 campaign council under Governor Dapo Abiodun, directing members to immediately mobilise support across the state's 20 local government areas and 236 wards for President Tinubu, governorship candidate Olamilekan "Yayi" Adeola and other party candidates. Abiodun urged an issue-based campaign highlighting his administration's record in infrastructure, education and the Gateway International Airport, while former governor Olusegun Osoba appealed to aggrieved members to "sheathe their swords" and work for the party's unity. | 2027 ELECTIONS; OGUN APC; CAMPAIGN COUNCIL | CHANNELS TV | |||
| THISDAY | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | NGE's Warning Signs: Press Freedom, Politics And Security Ahead Of 2027 | In this opinion piece, Iyobosa Uwugiaren examines a communiqué from the Nigerian Guild of Editors' Kano meeting warning against the harassment and prosecution of journalists under cybercrime and other laws, urging aggrieved parties to use the Media Ombudsman rather than intimidation. The piece also discusses the Guild's calls for a level playing field for political parties ahead of 2027, restraint from inflammatory campaign rhetoric, sustained security operations against terrorism and banditry, and welfare-focused economic reforms. | PRESS FREEDOM; 2027 ELECTIONS; NGE | THISDAY | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | UN Mission Says US Committed War Crimes In Iran | A UN fact-finding mission found reasonable grounds to believe the United States committed war crimes in February strikes on Iran's Minab Elementary School, which killed over 165 schoolgirls, and on a sports facility in Lamerd, saying both constituted indiscriminate attacks on civilian targets; the US has refused to accept responsibility and says it is still investigating. The mission, whose report goes to the UN Human Rights Council, also found Iranian authorities committed crimes against humanity, including illegal killings, torture and persecution, in their crackdown on nationwide protests that began in December and left more than 3,000 people dead. | IRAN; UNITED STATES; WAR CRIMES | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | India Warns US Tariffs Could Strain Ties Over Russian Oil | India warned that new US tariffs targeting buyers of Russian oil could strain bilateral relations, after the US House of Representatives passed a sanctions and tariff bill that could let President Trump impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries including India for continuing to purchase Russian crude. India's foreign ministry said it would take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests while continuing to source energy based on market conditions, as the world's third-largest oil importer and one of the biggest buyers of Russian crude since 2022. | INDIA; UNITED STATES; RUSSIAN OIL | ARISE NEWS | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | THROWBACK: What I Met In Govt Coffers On Taking Over From Peter Obi – Obiano | Amid the ongoing dispute between Governor Charles Soludo's administration and NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi over Anambra's finances, Premium Times revisited earlier statements by Obi's successor, Willie Obiano, and his then-Secretary to the State Government, Solo Chukwulobelu, who said in 2015 and 2017 that Obiano's government inherited N185 billion in current and contingent liabilities and only N9 billion in cash, contradicting Obi's claim of leaving N75 billion in savings. Former APGA chairman Victor Umeh separately maintained in 2017 that Obi's savings claim was false, though he acknowledged Obi had invested funds in long-maturity bonds inaccessible to Obiano's government. The Anambra government has since released loan records showing Obi's administration took eight external loans totalling $123.7 million between 2007 and 2013, with $92.35 million still outstanding. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ANAMBRA | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 3 Vigilantes Killed In Plateau Attack | Three community vigilantes were shot dead by armed men around 11pm on Tuesday in the NTV community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, while on guard duty, residents said. A local resident, Gabriel Ayuba, and Berom Youth Moulders spokesperson Rwang Tengwong confirmed the killings and called on security agencies to intensify patrols and bring the perpetrators to justice; the state police command and Operation Enduring Peace spokespersons did not respond to inquiries, and the attack adds to a string of recent killings across the state. | SECURITY; PLATEAU; VIGILANTES | DAILY TRUST | |||
| GUARDIAN | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Group Faults Proposed Atiku-Obi Alliance As MCE Begins Talks With Opposition | An APC-aligned group, BTO4PBAT, said a proposed alliance between ADC's Atiku Abubakar and NDC's Peter Obi would not be enough to defeat President Tinubu in 2027, arguing that combining opposition support bases does not automatically translate into votes and that the coalition would first need to resolve leadership and structural differences. Separately, the Prof. Pat Utomi-led Political Commission of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) has begun closed-door engagements with nine shortlisted opposition parties, including the SDP, ADC, NDC and PDP, aimed at producing a single opposition presidential candidate ahead of a tactical session in Ibadan in two weeks; participants will be required to commit in advance to supporting whichever candidate emerges. | 2027 ELECTIONS; OPPOSITION ALLIANCE; MCE | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: CSOs Raise Alarm Over Politicians' Plot To 'Buy' Dons, Monarchs | The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) warned that university dons with recent partisan involvement could be deployed as INEC returning and collation officers in 2027, after reports that over 600 senior northern academics attended a closed-door Kaduna meeting convened by presidential aide Ibrahim Masari to mobilise support for President Tinubu's re-election. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) separately criticised the use of traditional rulers and religious and academic institutions for partisan endorsements, citing visits by Tinubu's campaign council to monarchs and past convictions of academic returning officers for election manipulation as evidence that credentials alone do not guarantee neutrality. | 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC; CIVIL SOCIETY | GUARDIAN | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Four Kidnap Victims Rescued As Police Foil Bandit Attack In Katsina | The Katsina State Police Command rescued four kidnap victims, including a nursing baby, and recovered an AK-47 rifle after foiling a bandit attack in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area, following a distress call over the abduction of three women from Makwanta Village early Wednesday. Police tracked the fleeing suspects to the Dutsin-Ma–Danmusa border, where a gun battle forced the bandits to flee with gunshot wounds and abandon their victims unhurt; Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage commended the operatives and said efforts to arrest the fleeing suspects continue. | SECURITY; KIDNAPPING; KATSINA | CHANNELS TV | |||
| GUARDIAN | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Xenophobia In South Africa's Ivory Towers | In this opinion piece, Professor Adekeye Adebajo writes that a wave of Afrophobia swept South African universities in 2026, noting that foreign academics make up only 12 per cent of permanent staff at the country's public universities even as a parliamentary committee pushes to restrict their hiring to "critical or scarce skills," a stance he says misunderstands universities' cosmopolitan mission. He cites Wits University data recording over 935 xenophobic incidents and 384 deaths since 1994, and argues the hostility is directed almost solely at African academics from elsewhere on the continent rather than at Western academics, drawing on his own experience running a Pan-African institute at the University of Johannesburg. | XENOPHOBIA; SOUTH AFRICA; HIGHER EDUCATION | GUARDIAN | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 17TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | World's Water Cycle Becoming More Unpredictable, UN Warns | The UN's World Meteorological Organization warned that the planet's water cycle is swinging increasingly between extremes, with 2025 among the three driest years for the world's rivers in 35 years and glaciers losing a cumulative 1,400 gigatonnes of water between 2023 and 2025. WMO chief Celeste Saulo said the world is depleting "slow reserves" like groundwater and glaciers that once buffered droughts, and warned that a strengthening El Niño, expected to be the strongest in four decades, would raise the risk of both drought and flooding, urging countries to share hydrological data and early-warning systems across borders. | CLIMATE; WATER RESOURCES; UNITED NATIONS | CHANNELS TV | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | PDP Replaces Kano Gov'ship Candidate With Abacha's Son | The Kano State PDP named Muhammad Sani Abacha, son of the late Head of State Sani Abacha, as its governorship candidate after earlier nominee Muhammad Bello Dalha withdrew following consultations, state chairman Bello Gambo Bichi said at an expanded executive committee meeting. A replacement primary formally confirmed Abacha's emergence, and the party resolved a factional dispute by ceding the deputy governorship slot to the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki camp, naming Yusuf Ado Kibiya as running mate; some National and State Assembly candidates were also replaced as part of the reconciliation, which Bichi said left the party "waxing stronger" ahead of 2027. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PDP; KANO | DAILY TRUST | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Soludo Releases Obi's 'Debt Records', Accuses Him Of Unpaid Bills | The Anambra State Government published what it called Peter Obi's public debt records fourteen years after he left office, with Commissioner for Information Law Mefor alleging Obi's administration spent about $4.05 billion (N5.4 trillion) over eight years, left eight external loans with an outstanding N127.4 billion balance as of June 2026, and still owed salary and gratuity arrears to former Water Corporation staff and local government teachers. The statement also disputed Obi's claim of leaving a N2.13 billion balance in a First Bank ecological fund account, saying the cited account is an ordinary revenue account that never held such a sum, and challenged him to explain the discrepancy. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ANAMBRA | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Obidients Seek Clarity Over INEC Chairman's Handover | The Obidient Movement asked INEC to explain why National Commissioner Rhoda Gumus, rather than Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan, received an African Union pre-election assessment delegation in Abuja, saying there was no official communication of any handover. National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko demanded details of Amupitan's whereabouts, schedule and any meetings with President Tinubu or APC officials, and raised concerns about the chairman's alleged political associations, while INEC's website continues to list Amupitan as chairman and the commission had not responded to the queries at the time of the report. | 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC; OBIDIENT MOVEMENT | GUARDIAN | |||
| PUNCH | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Tinubu Forgave Northern Govs Who Opposed Him In 2023, Says Shettima | Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking in Ilorin at the turbaning of Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate, said President Tinubu forgave the northern governors who failed to back his 2023 presidential bid, noting only six of the North's 19 states had supported him at the time despite the "Baba bayan sunshi" narrative suggesting former President Buhari opposed his succession. Shettima urged Kwara politicians, amid unrest within the APC following its governorship primary, to embrace the same spirit of reconciliation, describing public office as temporary and urging leaders to serve with humility. | 2027 ELECTIONS; SHETTIMA; KWARA | PUNCH | |||
| VANGUARD | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ABIA: PDP Candidate Promises N90,000 Minimum Wage, Vows To Recall 15,000 Sacked Workers | PDP governorship candidate Kelechi Anosike pledged to pay a N90,000 state minimum wage, above the N70,000 national benchmark, and to recall 15,000 workers he said were sacked before retirement age if elected in Abia State. Speaking on Arise TV's The Morning Show, Anosike outlined a "welfarist" manifesto including clearing all salary, pension and gratuity arrears within 100 days, cutting excessive multiple taxation on small traders, setting up a traders' microfinance bank in Aba, and an "Operation Feed Abia" back-to-farm policy to improve food security. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ABIA; PDP | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Court Gives Atiku 7 Days To Serve Suit Challenging Tinubu's Eligibility On APC | A Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo, approved substituted service on President Tinubu through the APC within seven days, in a suit by ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar seeking to disqualify Tinubu from the 2027 election over an NYSC discharge certificate Atiku alleges was forged and bears a different name. Two senior lawyers, Akin Olujinmi and Wole Olanipekun, have separately filed processes for Tinubu challenging the suit's competence and Atiku's standing, arguing it is statute-barred, while full hearing is scheduled for September 28. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ATIKU; COURT CASE | VANGUARD | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 'I'll Stop Campaigning If You Prove I Left Debt,' Peter Obi Challenges Soludo | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi vowed on Facebook to end his 2027 campaign if Governor Soludo's administration could prove he left debts in Anambra, after Finance Commissioner Izuchukwu Okafor alleged Obi's government still owed a N2.1 billion ecological fund and other liabilities. Obi said he liquidated over N35 billion in historical gratuity arrears, left no outstanding salary, pension or contractor debts, and kept the N2.13 billion ecological fund intact in a First Bank account for his successor rather than spend it, challenging Soludo's government to disprove his account or he would end his presidential bid. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ANAMBRA | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| VANGUARD | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | South Africa Faults US Over New Visa Restrictions | South Africa's Foreign Ministry criticised the United States over new visa restrictions imposed on some South African nationals, announced a day earlier by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying the move appeared based on a mischaracterisation of South Africa's domestic policies by fringe groups. Pretoria said differences between the two countries should be resolved through diplomatic engagement between state actors rather than unilateral measures, amid wider tensions between the two governments over South Africa's domestic policies and international positions. | SOUTH AFRICA; UNITED STATES; VISA RESTRICTIONS | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Tshisekedi Third-Term Proposal Sparks Protests In DRC | Dozens of people were arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo after protests broke out in Kinshasa and other major cities against a proposed constitutional amendment that could let President Felix Tshisekedi seek a third term beyond his current term's 2028 expiry; police fired tear gas and warning shots to disperse demonstrators organised by opposition coalition Article 64 (C64). Tshisekedi said last month he would serve a third term "if the people wish it," and C64 leader Martin Fayulu said the opposition was considering an international complaint over alleged violence against activists, after the DRC Senate passed a referendum bill in June. | DR CONGO; TSHISEKEDI; PROTESTS | VANGUARD | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Applicants Sink Into Debt As UK Government Makes £5bn Annually From Immigration Fees | A joint investigation by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism and The Guardian Nigeria finds the UK Home Office nets almost £5 billion a year in profit from visa, citizenship and immigration charges, more than it collects in corporation tax from the energy, water and hospitality sectors combined, pushing many applicants, including Nigerians on the "Japa" trail, deep into debt. Case studies include a British-Tunisian couple who spent nearly a year saving for a partner visa, a Zimbabwean family who took a loan to cover a settlement bill exceeding £15,000, and a disabled man's family wrongly refused a fee waiver. The Home Office denies profiteering, saying the fees fund the wider migration and borders system, while several Labour ministers who once criticised the charges declined to comment for the story. | UK IMMIGRATION; JAPA | GUARDIAN | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Troops Neutralise 1,106 Terrorists In Borno | Outgoing Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, said troops neutralised 1,106 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters and intercepted over N300 million in illicit funds from their financiers during his tenure, in a farewell address at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri. He said 758 logistics collaborators were arrested, more than 475 weapons and 24,409 rounds of ammunition recovered, and 295 IEDs safely detonated, while sustained military pressure combined with non-kinetic engagement led to the surrender of over 969 fighters and family members and the rescue of 638 civilians, including all 46 students targeted in an attempted abduction at a girls' college in Monguno. | SECURITY; BOKO HARAM; BORNO | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Six SDP Supporters Die In Nasarawa Road Crash | Six supporters of the SDP's Nasarawa governorship candidate and former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, died in a road accident on the Lafia flyover on Monday while travelling to a political event in Awe Local Government Area, with several others injured, the campaign's media director Otaru Douglas confirmed. Adamu's wife led a delegation to condole with the bereaved families, and both the state government and the Nasarawa APC issued condolences, urging political campaigners and motorists to exercise caution on the roads during the campaign season. | ROAD ACCIDENT; SDP; NASARAWA | DAILY TRUST | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Rainbow Coalition Splits Tinubu's Camp As APC Govs Push Back | The APC's Progressive Governors' Forum, chaired by Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma, has distanced itself from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike's Rainbow Coalition, warning it could produce split-ticket voting that weakens APC candidates even while aiding President Tinubu's re-election. Wike insists his support for Tinubu is "sacrosanct" but that the coalition is separate from the APC and does not stop the PDP fielding candidates elsewhere. APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda's office voiced concern the rift could divide the party, particularly in Kwara, Rivers and Cross River states, while the PDP backed Wike's right to mobilise support and accused APC governors of fearing electoral scrutiny. A civil rights group, Intersociety, separately accused six APC governors of political intolerance ahead of 2027. | 2027 ELECTIONS; RAINBOW COALITION; APC | GUARDIAN | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: PDP Backs Wike's Rainbow Coalition For Tinubu's Re-Election, Says APC Governors Underperformed | The PDP said there is nothing wrong with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike remaining in the party while mobilising support for President Tinubu's re-election through the Rainbow Coalition. National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed said Wike has a constitutional right to back any candidate, and accused APC governors, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, of opposing the coalition out of fear that their poor performance in office will be exposed at the 2027 polls. The party said the governors' demand that Wike stop supporting candidates capable of beating them is a political miscalculation, insisted the PDP has stabilised and can field strong candidates against them, and described Wike as an asset rather than a liability to Tinubu's re-election project. | 2027 ELECTIONS; RAINBOW COALITION; PDP | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Obi Challenges Fellow Presidential Candidates To Academic Records Scrutiny | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi says he has no objection to the release of his academic records from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and other institutions he attended, and has challenged other 2027 presidential candidates to submit to the same scrutiny, arguing transparency should build public trust rather than be treated as an attack. The statement came as Obi also rejected Anambra State government claims that his 2006-2014 administration left behind unpaid debts, including a N2 billion ecological loan and contractor liabilities, saying he cleared more than N35 billion in historical gratuities and arrears and left office owing nothing. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ACADEMIC RECORDS | GUARDIAN | |||
| GUARDIAN | 16TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ADC Warns Tinubu As Petrol Price Hits N1,470 Per Litre | The ADC warned President Tinubu over rising petrol prices, which have reached N1,470 per litre in some locations after NNPCL again raised pump prices at its Abuja-area outlets to between N1,395 and N1,430 per litre, saying the increases are worsening the cost of transport, food, electricity and school fees. Presidential aide Sunday Asefon attributed the hikes mainly to global geopolitical tensions, including the US-Iran-Israel conflict and disruption risks to the Strait of Hormuz, rather than subsidy removal alone, while the ADC accused the administration of turning the petrol pump into "an instrument of punishment" for Nigerians. | PETROL PRICES; ADC; ECONOMY | GUARDIAN | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Power-sharing, Candidate-substitution Disputes Threaten ADC's Chances In Jigawa | The opposition ADC in Jigawa State is battling internal crisis ahead of 2027, with governorship candidate Sabo Nakudu publicly disclaiming a purported 60:40 power-sharing deal with party chieftain Bashir Jumbo, who lost the governorship primary to him and alleges the contest was rigged. Nakudu's camp has also been accused of not campaigning for ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar. Separately, party headquarters has substituted several primary winners, including Nakudu's own deputy governorship pick and a House of Representatives candidate, Zakari Alhaji-Sidi; the state ADC chairman said about eight candidates who won legislative primaries were replaced for unclear reasons, and the complaints have been forwarded to national headquarters awaiting a response. | 2027 ELECTIONS; ADC; JIGAWA | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Bandits Kill Two Police Officers In Benue Ambush | Two newly deployed Mobile Police officers were killed on 14 September when gunmen ambushed the convoy of the Divisional Police Officer of Ayilamo, Logo Local Government Area, as he returned from Makurdi, police spokesperson Peter Aondongu confirmed. This brings to six the number of officers killed in Ayilamo within four days, after four policemen and seven civilians died in an earlier attack on the community on 10 September. Residents blame armed herders operating from nearby forests, and the Benue Police Command separately presented insurance cheques to the families of officers earlier killed in the line of duty. | SECURITY; BANDITRY; BENUE | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Police Arrest Kidnap Suspects While Collecting N1.5m Ransom In Ondo, Rescue Victims | The Ondo State Police Command, working with Amotekun and Agbe-Koya, rescued two kidnap victims and recovered N1.5 million in ransom money after ambushing kidnappers as they emerged from a forest along the Ifira-Idoani axis on 11 September, spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh said. A follow-up operation on 13 September led to the arrest of three suspects, two of whom had gunshot wounds sustained during the earlier encounter; the case has been transferred to the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Akure to uncover the wider criminal network. | SECURITY; KIDNAPPING; ONDO | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PUNCH | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: My Support Is For Tinubu, Rainbow Coalition, Not APC — Wike | FCT Minister Nyesom Wike reiterated that his backing is for President Tinubu's re-election and the cross-party Rainbow Coalition, not the APC, and said he never promised the PDP would not field candidates for governorship, National Assembly or state Houses of Assembly. Responding to APC governors, he questioned how the APC won Senate seats in Imo State and National Assembly seats in Ebonyi, Abia and Enugu in 2023 despite Tinubu polling poorly in those states, asking whether a "rainbow coalition" explained those wins, and argued that voters splitting their support across parties is normal rather than a sign of confusion. | 2027 ELECTIONS; RAINBOW COALITION; WIKE | PUNCH | |||
| PUNCH | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | APC Denies Link To Violence In Enugu, Demands Probe | The Enugu State APC, through publicity secretary Uche Obute, denied sponsoring political violence in Nkanu West Local Government Area after gunmen disrupted an NDC grassroots meeting at Obuoffia Ward, leaving several NDC members with gunshot injuries, while a separate PDP rally at a primary school in Agbani was also affected. The APC called the allegations misleading and politically motivated, reaffirmed its support for Governor Peter Mbah's administration, and urged a thorough investigation; police spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe confirmed armed hoodlums carried out the shootings and said a probe was under way to identify and arrest the perpetrators. | POLITICAL VIOLENCE; APC; ENUGU | PUNCH | |||
| VANGUARD | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 'I Am The Hoax Buster' - Trump Rejects AI Danger Warnings | US President Donald Trump dismissed fears that artificial intelligence could destroy humanity as a hoax, comparing the warnings to past claims about climate change and the Russia investigations, and said the only guardrail AI needed was a strong president. The remarks, made in a series of Truth Social posts, come amid mounting global alarm after Anthropic's Dario Amodei, OpenAI's Sam Altman and others called for AI firms to slow down, and after Microsoft published a "humanist AI code of conduct." Trump also criticised Amodei personally and defended AI data centres in a call with Nvidia's Jensen Huang, even as China's spy chief and the UN human rights chief separately warned of the technology's dangers. | ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE; US POLITICS | VANGUARD | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | INEC, AU Election Monitoring Delegates Meet In Abuja Ahead Of 2027 | INEC's leadership met an African Union election-monitoring delegation, led by former Ethiopian foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen, at the Commission's Abuja headquarters to discuss preparations for the 2027 general election, including the application of technology, logistics arrangements and security. The delegation said it hopes to learn lessons from the 2023 election and INEC's strategies for results management, inclusivity and building voter trust ahead of 2027. National Commissioner Rhoda Gumus represented the INEC chairman at the meeting. | 2027 ELECTIONS; INEC; AFRICAN UNION | CHANNELS TV | |||
| VANGUARD | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Police Rescue Two Abducted Victims, Neutralise Three Suspected Kidnappers In Niger | The Niger State Police Command rescued two people abducted from Wako village and neutralised three suspected kidnappers during a gun battle in the Wawa forest near New-Bussa, spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun said. The victims were seized on 10 September and a ransom was being demanded before a surveillance team and vigilante volunteers intercepted the kidnappers; other suspects escaped the forest with bullet injuries. | SECURITY; KIDNAPPING; NIGER STATE | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 15TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Obi: I Paid All Debts Due Before Leaving Office | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi rejected claims by Anambra State's Commissioner for Finance, Izuchukwu Okafor, that his administration (2006-2014) left unpaid loans for the Soludo government to service, insisting he settled all salaries, pensions, gratuities and contractor obligations before leaving office and left a N2.1 billion ecological fund untouched for a specific erosion project rather than spending it. He challenged anyone disputing his record to check the bank account details he offered to provide. Obi also said state governors, including Anambra's Soludo, were free to support President Tinubu's re-election, but insisted the 2027 election must be free, fair and credible and left to voters to decide. | 2027 ELECTIONS; PETER OBI; ANAMBRA | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | National Assembly Suspends Legislative Engagements With South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks | Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and will boycott South African-hosted legislative activities over continued reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals. The boycott covers lawmakers, committees and staff, including physical and virtual conferences, seminars and parliamentary engagements. The Assembly called on South African authorities to protect Nigerians, investigate attacks and prosecute perpetrators. | XENOPHOBIA | VANGUARD | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | “You Cannot Allow Democracy to Be Funded by Moneybags” – NDC to Raise 2027 Campaign Funds From Ordinary Nigerians | The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says it plans to adopt a grassroots fundraising model for its 2027 election campaign, allowing ordinary Nigerians to contribute as little as N1,000 or N2,000. National leader and Bayelsa West Senator Seriake Dickson said the approach is intended to reduce the influence of wealthy individuals, billionaires and political financiers who traditionally fund campaigns, while giving ordinary citizens a direct stake in the party’s electoral efforts. Dickson argued that allowing political financing to be dominated by wealthy individuals, particularly those with access to public resources, can weaken democratic participation and leave ordinary Nigerians at a disadvantage. He said the NDC wants to mobilise a broad base of small contributors rather than depend on a few major donors, claiming that the party is not funded from the government treasury. He also disclosed that the NDC is still consulting on the composition of its presidential campaign council, which will be announced after the consultations are concluded. The party, he said, wants to avoid prematurely publishing a list and subsequently withdrawing or changing it. On the 2027 elections, Dickson called on INEC, security agencies and other electoral institutions to ensure a free and fair process. He said the NDC would take its campaign directly to Nigerians and would fight for every vote rather than take any support for granted. | NDC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Kwankwaso Urges Atiku to Withdraw From Presidential Race as Obi Reopens Coalition Talks | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed openness to renewed opposition coalition talks, stressing that any alliance should be negotiated between political parties rather than individual presidential candidates. He also denied reports that he rejected a vice-presidential offer from Atiku Abubakar, saying no such offer was formally made. Meanwhile, NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso urged Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, citing his age and health. Obi also criticised the Tinubu administration over subsidy-removal savings, rising debt, spending priorities and insecurity, while outlining his proposals on production-focused subsidies, state police and other reforms. | NDC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS; PETER OBI | DAILY TRUST | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | PFIPC Scandal: Court Defers Adeyemi’s Fundamental Rights Suit Over Service Dispute | Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has returned Adeniyi Adeyemi’s fundamental rights case to the court registry for reassignment, after finding that the respondents still had time to respond to the court’s order to show cause. Adeyemi, who is detained over allegations of forgery, fraud and impersonation relating to his claim to be Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC), had asked the court for six reliefs, including his release, bail, medical access and protection from police interrogation without his lawyer present. The court had earlier granted him access to lawyers of his choice but declined to grant the other reliefs without first hearing from the respondents. At Thursday’s proceedings, Adeyemi’s lawyer said the respondents had been served and was ready to proceed. However, the judge noted that the respondents were served with the relevant order on September 8, meaning the 72-hour response period had not yet expired. He also questioned whether the proof of service for the hearing notice had been properly sworn before a commissioner for oaths. The case was therefore returned to the registry, with Adeyemi directed to return when the respondents’ response period has expired and the matter is ready for hearing. | PFIPC SCANDAL | CHANNELS TV | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Kaduna: Uba Sani Makes 88 Appointments to Accelerate Development Agenda | Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has appointed three new commissioners, 45 aides and 40 members of various boards, as part of efforts to accelerate his administration’s development agenda and strengthen institutional reforms. The new commissioners are Ben Kure, Managing Director of Kaduna State Media Corporation, appointed Commissioner for Sports Development; Amina Akilu Dalhat, Commissioner for Special Duties I; and Abdullahi Garba Abbas, Commissioner for Special Duties II. Dr Haliru Soba, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, was also appointed Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration. The governor also appointed chairmen and members to several key boards, including the Kaduna State Health Care Board, Kaduna Vigilance Service Board, College of Education Gidan Waya, Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, Kaduna Hospital Supply Management Agency and Kaduna Rural Access Roads Authority. Sani said the appointees were selected based on their track records, integrity and dedication, and tasked them with bringing fresh perspectives, improving public service delivery and aligning their work with his administration’s vision for Kaduna State. | KAUDNA STATE; GOVERNOR UBA SANI | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: ADC Crisis Deepens Over Adamawa Governorship Ticket as Suleiman Challenges Alleged Substitution | A dispute has deepened within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its Adamawa governorship ticket, pitting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against former SGF Babachir Lawal. The controversy centres on an alleged move to replace Omar Suleiman, who says he won the party’s governorship primary, with Tukur Modibbo, who reportedly came second. Suleiman has taken the matter to the Federal High Court, seeking to stop any substitution. Lawal and Adamawa ADC stakeholders have opposed the reported move, while Atiku has denied involvement. The dispute has also raised concerns over internal democracy, alleged ethnic considerations and the ADC’s ability to manage internal divisions ahead of 2027. | ADC CRISIS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: IGP Assures Nigerians of Secure Polls Despite Rising Insecurity | Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has assured Nigerians that the 2027 general elections will be safe and secure despite persistent insecurity, including jihadist insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and election-related violence. He said the police are training personnel and working with the military to secure polling across the country, including conflict-affected northern areas. Disu also backed state police, saying the federal force would retain oversight, while announcing plans to increase police personnel from just under 300,000 to about 350,000 and expand the use of drones and AI for security operations. | IGP OLATUNJI DISU; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | VANGUARD | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Midterm Elections: Trump Faces Criticism Over Proposed $5,000 Payments Tied to Republican Control of Congress, Critics Allege Vote-Buying | US President Donald Trump has proposed a $5,000 “Trump dividend” for American citizens if Republicans retain control of Congress in the November midterm elections, directly linking the proposed payment to the party’s electoral performance. The proposal has sparked criticism over its legality, cost and potential impact on the US deficit and inflation. Economists estimate that paying $5,000 to roughly 240 million adult Americans could cost about $1.2 trillion, raising questions about how the government would finance it at a time when US national debt has surpassed $40 trillion. Republican Congressman Chip Roy questioned where the money would come from, while fiscal analysts warned that borrowing to fund the payments could increase deficits and inflation. Trump's proposal has also attracted political criticism from Democrats, with California Governor Gavin Newsom accusing him of trying to “buy” votes with taxpayer money. Within the Republican Party, Vice-President JD Vance suggested the payment could potentially be means-tested, while Senator Bernie Moreno backed the proposal and said he would introduce legislation to establish it. The proposal is also being questioned as a “dividend”, since the government is running large deficits rather than distributing a surplus. Tariff revenue is unlikely to cover the cost quickly: estimates put 2026 tariff and excise-tax collections at about $210 billion as of September 8, meaning several years of such revenue would be required to finance a $5,000 payment to every adult. Importantly, no payment has been approved. The proposal would require legislation, leaving its funding, eligibility and implementation unresolved as Republicans campaign to retain control of Congress. | U.S; PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP; MIDTERM ELECTIONS | ARISE NEWS | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ecuador Court Sentences Ex-President Bucaram, Son to Over 9 Years in COVID-19 Corruption Case | Ecuador’s judiciary has sentenced former President Abdala Bucaram and his son, Jacobo, to nine years and four months in prison for their roles as collaborators in organised criminal activity linked to the illegal sale of medical supplies, including COVID-19 test kits, during the pandemic. The case took six years to reach trial. Prosecutors said two other individuals identified as the main perpetrators received 13 years and four months each. One person implicated in the case was later murdered in prison in August 2020. Bucaram, who was removed from office in 1997 after just six months and later spent two decades in exile in Panama, attended Wednesday’s ruling remotely from a clinic in Guayaquil, where he was receiving treatment for heart problems. The case had previously been dismissed in 2021, but proceedings resumed after prosecutors appealed. | ECUADOR; JUDICIARY; COVID 19; CORRUPTION | CHANNELS TV | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Gambia: Prolonged Blackouts Trigger Violent Protests, Calls Grow for President Barrow’s Resignation | Protests in The Gambia have turned violent following months of persistent power outages that have disrupted essential services and heightened public frustration. The demonstrations were triggered by prolonged electricity shortages, which have affected access to basic services, including water supplies, particularly during the country’s hot season. Angry protesters have taken to the streets, demanding an end to the worsening power crisis and calling on President Adama Barrow to resign. The unrest highlights growing public dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the country’s electricity supply, as residents continue to grapple with frequent and prolonged blackouts. | GAMBIA; BLACK OUTS; RESIGNATION | ARISE NEWS | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ‘Munhumutapa Day’: Zimbabwe Declares President Mnangagwa’s Birthday Annual Public Holiday | Zimbabwe has declared 15 September an annual public holiday, named Munhumutapa Day, to commemorate the country’s pre-colonial heritage. The date coincides with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 84th birthday. The declaration comes amid renewed controversy over his political future, after he suggested he would “still be around” beyond 2030 despite his current term being due to end in 2030. | ZIMBABWE | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Police Arrest 46 Suspects Over Alleged Involvement in Obstruction of Peter Obi’s Convoy in Benue State | Police in Benue State have arrested 46 people allegedly involved in obstructing the convoy of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, during his visit to Makurdi on Tuesday. The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, said the convoy was blocked by a group carrying sticks, creating a situation that could have escalated into violence. The police said they avoided using force to prevent possible loss of lives and property, but immediately launched an intelligence-led investigation. Obi was eventually escorted safely to the airport. The Benue State Government denied involvement in the incident, while Amnesty International called for an investigation. The police warned that such actions would not be tolerated as the country approaches the 2027 elections, and said those found culpable would be prosecuted. | PETER OBI; BENUE STATE | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Akpabio Petitions DSS Over Alleged Anti-North Statement | Senate President Godswill Akpabio has petitioned the DSS over a purported anti-North statement circulating online and attributed to him. Akpabio, through his Chief of Staff, said he never made the statement and described the graphic as false, inflammatory and deliberately designed to provoke regional resentment. The petition asked the DSS to investigate the origin and coordinated distribution of the graphic, including individuals identified as some of its early amplifiers. Akpabio stressed that those named should not be presumed guilty, but could provide information on the source, sponsors and distribution network. The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. | SENATE PRESIDENT; ANTI-NORTH STATEMENT | CHANNELS TV | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: Candidates Flag Off Campaigns as State Campaigns Begin | With governorship and House of Assembly campaigns officially commencing on Wednesday, four governorship candidates across Kebbi, Adamawa, Rivers and Ogun states flagged off their campaigns. In Kebbi, ADC candidate Abubakar Malami criticised the APC-led government over insecurity, budget management and the prolonged closure of schools. In Adamawa, APC candidate Tijjani Ahmad Galadima pledged to build on Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s achievements while shifting the state’s economy away from dependence on federal allocations. In Ogun, PDP candidate Oladipupo Adebutu unveiled his seven-point ITURA DE agenda, focused on security, local government autonomy, workers’ welfare, economic development, education and healthcare. In Rivers, APC candidate Kingsley Chinda, an ally of Nyesom Wike, formally commenced his campaign and pledged to serve the state if elected. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Sokoto: Police Engage Political Parties, LG Chairmen Ahead of 2027 Elections | The Sokoto State Police Command has engaged political party leaders and elected local government chairmen on security preparations ahead of the 2027 political campaigns and elections. Commissioner of Police Hayatu Shaffa urged political actors to conduct peaceful campaigns, follow electoral rules and prevent supporters from engaging in violence, intimidation or activities that could heighten tensions. The police also called on local government chairmen to support security agencies through community engagement, intelligence gathering and identifying individuals linked to criminal activities. Political parties and local government leaders pledged to cooperate with the police and support efforts to maintain peace before, during and after the elections. | SOKOTO STATE; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | ||||
| DAILY TRUST | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Northwest ADC Governorship Candidates Sign Development Compact, Accuse APC Governors of Failure | Ahead of the 2027 general elections, ADC governorship candidates across the seven North-West states have signed a development compact, criticising the APC-led governments in the region over insecurity, poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure and inadequate social services. Speaking on behalf of the candidates, former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami said the Northwest ADC Governorship Candidates’ Compact 2027–2031 is aimed at reforming governance and ensuring public resources translate into measurable improvements in citizens’ lives. The candidates cited insecurity, displacement, abandoned farmlands and high out-of-school rates as major challenges facing the region. They also pledged to promote accountable governance and support ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s promise to reverse fuel subsidy removal. | NORTH-WEST; ADC; APC | DAILY TRUST | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | South-South PDP Calls for National Burial and Immortalisation of Late Zonal Chairman Dan Orbih | The PDP South-South Zonal Working Committee has called on the party’s national leadership to immortalise its late zonal chairman, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, in recognition of his contributions to the growth, stability and survival of the party. The committee also urged the PDP to accord him a befitting national burial, noting that he died while still actively serving the party. The resolutions were reached at an emergency meeting attended by eight of the 10 members of the zonal committee. The committee commended PDP leaders, including Nyesom Wike, the National Working Committee, NEC and Board of Trustees, as well as party stakeholders and Nigerians, for their support and condolences following Orbih’s death. The zonal leadership also constituted a burial committee to coordinate the funeral arrangements and ensure the participation of party leaders and stakeholders. Chief Lesi Maol was appointed chairman, with High Chief George Turnah as co-chairman and Hillary Otsu as secretary. | PDP | ARISE NEWS | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Katsina State House of Assembly Endorse Governor Radda for Second Term | The Katsina State House of Assembly has endorsed Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for a second term and pledged to support his re-election bid in the 2027 governorship election. The endorsement was announced by Speaker Nasir Yahaya Daura during the presentation of the N828.64 billion 2027 Appropriation Bill by Governor Radda. The Speaker commended the administration’s performance in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security and human capital development, and pledged that lawmakers would give the proposed budget speedy consideration. He also reaffirmed the Assembly’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections. Daura described the budget as the final one of Radda’s first tenure and the last to be presented before the expiration of the 8th Assembly. He also noted that the Assembly had passed more than 50 bills and carried out several oversight functions during its tenure. | KATSINA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY | ARISE NEWS | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ogun 2027: Hunye Accuses APC of Imposing Candidate, Violating Due Process | Abayomi Semako Hunye, an APC governorship aspirant and former Osun State commissioner, has accused the party of imposing a governorship candidate and disregarding its internal procedures in the lead-up to the 2026 Ogun State governorship election. Hunye, who is challenging the party’s governorship process at the Federal High Court, said he was not invited to any meeting where the alleged consensus or arrangement was reached and maintained that the court would ultimately determine who emerges as the party’s candidate. The dispute centres on Senator Olamilekan Solomon Adeola (Yayi), whom Hunye referred to as the party’s preferred candidate. Hunye also challenged his reported suspension from the APC, saying he was never formally notified of the allegations against him or given an opportunity to respond before the suspension. He said he obtained his nomination form on April 28, attended the party’s screening on May 11 and was cleared to contest, questioning how he could have been treated as an aspirant if he had already been suspended. He said his legal action was about fairness and adherence to due process, rather than simply losing the contest. Hunye also alleged that he and his supporters faced harassment during the dispute and defended his campaign posters, acknowledging that they could have stated that he was contesting while the matter remained before the court. He maintained that he would continue his political activities, including campaigning for President Bola Tinubu, while allowing the court to determine the outcome of the governorship dispute. | OGUN 2027; GENERAL ELECTIONS | ARISE NEWS | |||
| REUTERS | 10TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | US-Iran War: Trump Says Conflict Could Continue Until After 2026 Midterm Elections | US President Donald Trump has said he expects the six-month-old war with Iran to end after the November 2026 US midterm elections, while warning that the United States could launch another strike on Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain, a heavily fortified site linked to the country’s nuclear programme. The comments came as the conflict intensified, with Iran saying it attacked 10 ships near the Strait of Hormuz after the US sank five Iranian oil tankers. Shipping through the strategic waterway has fallen sharply, while Brent crude remained above $100 a barrel as disruptions also affected the Red Sea. Tensions have also spread to Saudi Arabia, where the Iran-backed Houthis have intensified attacks. Saudi authorities issued multiple emergency alerts in Khamis Mushait, while the Saudi-led coalition said at least 73 people were wounded in recent Houthi attacks across four southern cities. Trump also accused Tehran of trying to influence the US midterm elections, which will determine whether Republicans retain control of Congress. | U.S-IRAN CONFLICT | REUTERS | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Campaigns Begin Today | Official campaigns for the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have commenced across the 28 states where governorship elections will be held, following INEC’s timetable. Candidates can now formally take their campaigns to voters through rallies, media engagements, town halls and other platforms. The development comes three weeks after presidential and National Assembly campaigns began on August 19. Major parties, including the APC, NDC and ADC, have fielded governorship candidates across the 28 states. However, despite the opening of the campaign window, several major parties are yet to fully activate their campaign structures. The APC has announced its national campaign council but is yet to inaugurate it amid internal complaints over the inclusion of some members. Opposition parties including the NDC, ADC and PDP are also yet to inaugurate their central or state-level campaign committees. Political analysts attribute the delays to post-primary tensions, funding challenges and negotiations over strategic alliances ahead of the elections. With the campaign window now open, increased political activity and grassroots mobilisation are expected as parties finalise their structures and begin making their case directly to voters. | CAMPAIGNS; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| PUNCH | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: SDP Unveils Presidential Manifesto, Challenges Tinubu to Public Debate | SDP presidential candidate Adewole Adebayo has challenged President Bola Tinubu to a public debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, arguing that Nigerians deserve an opportunity to compare the policies, records and plans of the candidates seeking to lead the country. Adebayo made the call in Abuja while unveiling the SDP’s 2027–2031 manifesto, titled Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity. He identified insecurity as a major priority of his proposed administration and pledged that an SDP government would defeat insecurity within four years if elected. Beyond security, Adebayo outlined several economic and infrastructure proposals, including plans to establish four functional refineries, increase electricity generation to 75,000 megawatts and keep petrol prices at no more than N200 per litre. He argued that Nigerians should not be paying international prices for domestically produced crude and refined petroleum products. The SDP candidate also urged Nigerians to use their votes to bring about a change of government in 2027, saying the ballot would be the primary means of changing how the country is governed. He presented the manifesto as the party’s alternative policy framework for addressing poverty, insecurity, unemployment, energy shortages and rising living costs. The unveiling comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections and opposition candidates increasingly begin to distinguish their policy positions from those of the Tinubu administration. | SDP; APC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | PUNCH | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Campaigns: Sowore Accuses Benue State Government of Sponsoring Attack on Peter Obi’s Convoy | AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has accused the Benue State Government of sponsoring the disruption of Peter Obi’s convoy in Makurdi, alleging that the incident was intended to prevent Obi from entering the city during his campaign visit. Sowore pointed to the reported presence of a special adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia among the crowd as evidence of possible government involvement. Despite his political differences with Obi, Sowore condemned the incident, saying no candidate should be prevented from campaigning anywhere in Nigeria. He warned that allowing political intimidation to go unchecked ahead of the 2027 elections could escalate into wider political violence and even assassinations, and called on candidates and authorities to condemn and investigate the incident. | OMOYELE SOWORE; BENUE STATE; PETER OBI | ARISE NEWS | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: Rising Threats, Opposition Attacks Put Peace Accord to the Test | Concerns over political violence are growing less than three weeks into the 2027 election campaign, with reported threats, intimidation and disruptions of opposition activities in Benue, Ebonyi and Enugu raising fresh questions about the commitment to peaceful electioneering. The developments come shortly after political parties and presidential candidates signed a peace accord on August 18, 2026, under the National Peace Committee chaired by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar. The accord was intended to secure commitments to peaceful and transparent campaigns ahead of the elections. In Benue State, the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) accused the APC and the state government of allegedly deploying thugs to disrupt presidential candidate Peter Obi’s visit to Yelwata, where he was scheduled to meet victims of a previous terrorist attack and donate relief materials. The Benue State Government denied involvement, while the state Commissioner of Police confirmed that authorities were aware of Obi’s visit and said youths had opposed his presence. The situation has prompted civil society groups to warn that such incidents could serve as early warning signs of electoral violence. CISLAC and the Transition Monitoring Group called for immediate and impartial intervention by security and electoral authorities, while urging political parties, candidates and their supporters to stop threats, intimidation, harassment and obstruction of opponents. In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru reportedly warned newly elected local government chairmen that they could lose their positions if they failed to deliver their councils to the APC in 2027. The chairman of Ohaukwu LGA subsequently warned opposition elements to stay away from the council area, describing them as “enemies” and declaring them persona non grata. The PDP condemned the remarks as inflammatory and potentially capable of encouraging political violence. Meanwhile, in Enugu State, a PDP ward meeting in Akpugo Ward 3, the political base of the party’s governorship candidate, Uche Nnaji, was reportedly disrupted by gunmen. Party officials said canopies, chairs and other materials were destroyed and attendees fled for safety. Taken together, the incidents are raising concerns that political intimidation and violence could escalate as the 2027 campaign progresses, potentially undermining citizens’ ability to participate freely and parties’ ability to campaign across the country. | PEACE ACCORD; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Defections: Kwara APC Crisis Deepens As Senator Ashiru’s Offa Structure Collapses Into PDP Ahead of 2027 | Political realignment in Kwara State is intensifying ahead of the 2027 elections, with hundreds of APC members in Offa Local Government Area reportedly defecting to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The latest development involves members of the APC structure in Shawo Central Ward, the political base of Senator Lola Ashiru, who declared their support for the PDP. The defectors, led by Comrade Ezekiel Adepoju, said they were convinced by the leadership of former Senate President Bukola Saraki and viewed the PDP as a better platform for the political future of Offa and Kwara State. The development comes against the backdrop of internal divisions within the Kwara APC following its last governorship primary, which produced the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, as the party’s candidate. The crisis reportedly contributed to the formation of the G15 group among APC leaders and subsequent defections, including those of Senator Saliu Mustapha and former APC leader in Patigi, Jiya Kolo, who moved to the PDP and secured its senatorial tickets. The latest defections also extend to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s political base, where hundreds of APC members reportedly declared support for the PDP. The defectors, led by Taofeek Mohammed, cited dissatisfaction with the APC administration and concerns about the direction of governance in the state. The movement has added to the growing contest for grassroots support in Kwara ahead of 2027, particularly as the opposition PDP seeks to strengthen its structures in areas traditionally associated with the ruling APC. | DEFECTIONS; KWARA STATE; APC; PDP | ARISE NEWS | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: INEC Urges Oba of Lagos to Caution Politicians Against Divisive Campaigns Ahead of Polls | INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has urged the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, to use his influence to discourage politicians from engaging in divisive campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. During a courtesy visit to the monarch, Amupitan called for issue-based campaigns and warned against personal attacks, hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric. Amupitan also appealed to traditional institutions to support INEC’s efforts to promote peaceful elections, encourage voter registration and PVC collection, and mobilise citizens to participate actively in the electoral process. He stressed that technology alone cannot guarantee credible and peaceful elections without the cooperation of citizens and traditional rulers. The Oba backed the call for issue-based politics, urging politicians to move away from short-term patronage and focus on genuine capacity building. He also called on INEC officials to remain impartial and urged the Federal Government to provide adequate and timely funding for the 2027 elections. | INEC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS; LAGOS STATE; CAMPAIGNS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ondo: APC Candidates Question Aiyedatiwa’s Commitment Amid Alleged Election Funds Committee | A fresh crisis is emerging within the Ondo State chapter of the APC as National Assembly candidates have raised concerns over an alleged secret committee set up to manage election funds expected from the party’s national headquarters ahead of the 2027 elections. The candidates allege that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa established the committee to control the funds and fear the money could be diverted to support candidates contesting against them on other party platforms. The alleged committee reportedly includes state commissioners, the governor’s younger brother and other close associates. The governor’s office has denied the existence of the committee, describing the report as a rumour aimed at creating divisions within the party. Aiyedatiwa has also repeatedly denied allegations of anti-party activities, insisting that he has “zero tolerance” for such conduct. The controversy comes amid existing tensions within the Ondo APC following the party’s primaries. Some party members allege that aspirants who lost APC tickets and are now contesting under the PDP and SDP are being backed by the governor through the alleged “Rainbow Coalition.” Aiyedatiwa has denied these allegations. | ONDO STATE; APC | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Osun Guber: “False and Mischievous” – APC Denies Filing Petition Challenging Adeleke’s Victory | The APC in Osun State has denied reports that its 2026 governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, filed a petition challenging Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory at the Election Petition Tribunal. The party’s Governorship Campaign Council said neither the APC nor Oyebamiji submitted any petition against the August 15 election outcome, describing reports to the contrary as false and mischievous. The clarification follows a petition reportedly filed by lawyer Oluseyi Oyagbile, who claimed he received instructions from Oyebamiji’s running mate, Kayode Adereti. The APC maintained that the purported petition was being used to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension, insisting that the party and its candidate remain committed to lawful and democratic processes. | OSUN 2026; APC; ACCORD PARTY | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ekiti Guber: PDP Candidate Oluyede Withdraws Petition Challenging Oyebanji’s Re-election | PDP’s candidate in the June 20, 2026 Ekiti governorship election, Wole Oluyede, has withdrawn his petition challenging Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election. The Election Petition Tribunal subsequently struck out the case after Oluyede’s counsel formally moved the withdrawal motion. Oluyede said he withdrew the petition following appeals from what he described as “important people,” including President Bola Tinubu and his advisers, and in the interest of moving Ekiti and Nigeria forward. He also disclosed that Oyebanji had extended a hand of fellowship to him after the election and said he was willing to work with the governor to support Tinubu’s presidential bid. Oyebanji was declared winner with 319,224 votes, while Oluyede polled 40,543. The withdrawal does not end all legal challenges to the election, as the tribunal has fixed September 14 to hear petitions filed by the SDP and Action Alliance candidates challenging Oyebanji’s victory. | EKITI STATE 2026 GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 9TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Kebbi: Governor Nasir Dissolves KEBSIEC Governing Board as Tenure Expires | Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has approved the dissolution of the Governing Board of the Kebbi State Independent Electoral Commission (KEBSIEC), effective September 18, 2026, following the expiration of the board’s tenure. The state government said the two commission members whose tenures have not expired will remain in office pending the reconstitution of the commission. Governor Idris thanked the outgoing members for their service and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting KEBSIEC’s independence and integrity. | KEBBI STATE; KEBSIEC | CHANNELS TV | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: INEC to Deploy Real-Time Readiness Tracker Across 36 States, FCT Ahead of Polls | INEC has intensified preparations for the 2027 General Election, introducing a real-time readiness tracker to monitor the operational preparedness of its state offices. The tool, linked to the Election Monitoring and Support Centre (EMSC), will provide real-time updates on key activities including the distribution of election materials and staff training, helping the commission identify and address operational gaps early. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan also directed Administrative Secretaries across the 36 states and the FCT to strengthen coordination, standardise administrative processes and apply lessons from recent off-cycle elections, particularly Osun. The commission further identified voter apathy, declining public trust, misinformation and disinformation as major challenges ahead of 2027. INEC disclosed that the three-phase Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise recorded 10,772,421 new registrants between August 2025 and July 2026, subject to biometric verification. | INEC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | “Unprecedented” Domestic Borrowing: Atiku Accuses Tinubu Government of Reckless Borrowing Despite Oil Revenue Windfall | African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Tinubu administration over what he described as reckless domestic borrowing, arguing that the government is accumulating debt despite crude oil prices rising above the benchmark used for the 2026 budget. He said the Federal Government borrowed ₦24.7 trillion domestically between January and August 2026, a 90.5% increase from the same period in 2025, warning that the borrowing could restrict private-sector access to credit, destroy jobs and worsen the cost-of-living crisis. The development also triggered a debate among opposition figures over their capacity to replace President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed questioned the ability of major opposition figures to improve Nigeria, prompting Peter Obi to defend his record as Anambra governor and outline priorities including reducing the cost of governance, tackling corruption and insecurity, and improving healthcare, education and poverty reduction. | ADC; APC; ATIKU ABUBAKAR | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| ARISE NEWS | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Ondo: Governor Aiyedatiwa Denies Sponsoring Defections, Declares Zero Tolerance for Anti-Party Activities | Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared zero tolerance for anti-party activities within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging party officials across the state to focus on grassroots mobilisation and securing victory for APC candidates. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with the party’s 18 local government and 203 ward chairmen in Akure, Aiyedatiwa denied allegations that he was sponsoring APC members or candidates to defect to the PDP or contest under other parties. He maintained that he had never engaged in anti-party activities and urged members to support President Bola Tinubu and all APC candidates. The governor emphasised the importance of ward-level structures, noting that elections are won at polling units located within the wards. He therefore directed ward chairmen and secretaries to hold regular meetings with party leaders and make grassroots mobilisation the central focus of their preparations for 2027. Aiyedatiwa also cited his political history and past experiences within the progressive political movement to reinforce his commitment to party loyalty and discipline. He urged members to respect decisions reached by party leadership and work collectively towards the party’s electoral success. APC State Chairman Babatunde Kolawole similarly demanded total loyalty to Aiyedatiwa and the party, warning that alleged anti-party activities would attract consequences. He said the party had gathered intelligence on acts of disloyalty and expressed confidence that APC would win the presidential, National Assembly and State House of Assembly elections in 2027. | 2027; ONDO STATE; APC | ARISE NEWS | |||
| PUNCH | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Makinde Rejects Fuel Subsidy, Proposes Cheaper Domestic Crude Pricing for Nigerians | Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, has rejected calls to return to the old fuel subsidy regime, instead proposing a domestic crude pricing framework that would make crude supplied to Nigerian refineries cheaper and ultimately reduce petrol prices for consumers. Speaking at the commissioning of the APM presidential campaign office in Abuja, Makinde said his proposal should not be mistaken for a return to subsidy. He argued that since Nigeria produces crude oil, crude supplied to local refineries should not be priced as though it were imported from abroad. According to him, the benefit of Nigeria’s oil resources should be built into the system at the point of domestic crude supply, rather than through government intervention at the petrol pump after other costs and inefficiencies have accumulated. Makinde also called for greater transparency across the petroleum value chain, covering crude production, domestic allocation, refining, transportation, distribution, taxes and retail margins. He said Nigerians should be able to understand how the final petrol price is determined, who receives payments and where inefficiencies are driving up costs. His position comes amid renewed debate over fuel subsidy ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Former Vice-President and presidential hopeful Atiku Abubakar, who campaigned in 2023 on removing subsidy, has now pledged to restore it if elected, arguing that the move would ease the burden of higher fuel prices on Nigerians. Makinde's proposal offers a different approach, reducing the underlying cost of domestic fuel production rather than reinstating a pump-price subsidy. The governor also used the occasion to promote his “Reset Nigeria” agenda, saying the campaign should involve ordinary Nigerians, including traders, farmers, workers, young people and small-business owners. He argued that the country's growing oil wealth must translate into measurable improvements in citizens' lives and called for a government that is more transparent and accountable. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | PUNCH | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Enugu 2027: APC Launches Campaign Strategy, Targets “Top-to-Bottom” Victory | Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has urged APC candidates contesting the 2027 elections to campaign on the visible achievements and projects of his administration, as the party targets a sweeping victory in the state. He stressed sustained grassroots mobilisation, data-driven campaigning and unity among candidates, warning that personal disagreements should not undermine the party’s collective interests. At a strategic retreat in Enugu, APC leaders also directed candidates to strengthen their digital campaigns, communicate the achievements of both the state and federal governments, and engage voters through town halls, community meetings and other platforms. The party's Deputy National Chairman (South), Benjamin Nwoye, called for “top-to-bottom” voting, while Chief of Staff Victor Udeh urged candidates to return to their constituencies and reconnect with voters after what the party described as inactivity since the primaries. | ENUGU STATE; APC; GOVERNOR PETER MBAH | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | National Security: ONSA Begins National Crisis Simulation to Test Nigeria’s Emergency Readiness With Rapid Response 3 Exercise in Delta State | The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has launched Rapid Response 3 (CRE 2026) in Asaba, Delta State, a five-day national crisis-response simulation designed to test Nigeria’s preparedness for complex emergencies and strengthen coordination among government agencies. Scheduled to begin on 11 September 2026, the exercise will test command structures, rapid deployment, inter-agency communication and crisis-management procedures under the National Crisis Management Doctrine. It is the first time the exercise is being held outside the FCT. ONSA said lessons from the exercise will be compiled into a final report to improve future emergency-response operations. | NATIONAL SECURITY; ONSA; RAPID RESPONSE | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| CHANNELS TV | 8TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | War: Russia Resumes Strikes on Kyiv Amid US Mediation Efforts | Russia has resumed strikes on Kyiv and surrounding areas after a three-day pause ordered by President Vladimir Putin during a weekend visit by US President Donald Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, to Russia and Ukraine. The attacks began early Tuesday, with Ukrainian authorities reporting Russian drone strikes on the Boryspil and Fastiv districts and explosions across Kyiv. Buildings were reportedly hit in the capital and the two surrounding districts, while fires and plumes of smoke were observed. Kyiv authorities declared an air-raid alert and urged residents to seek shelter. The resumption of attacks comes despite recent diplomatic efforts by the Trump administration to revive peace negotiations. Witkoff had described the discussions with Russia and Ukraine as showing progress and raised the possibility of renewing three-way peace talks aimed at ending the war. Russia’s state news agency TASS confirmed that the three-day pause had expired, while Ukrainian officials reported the renewed attacks shortly afterwards. The developments highlight the difficulty of sustaining a ceasefire even as diplomatic efforts continue. | RUSSIA; KYIV; U.S | CHANNELS TV | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: NDC Denies Alleged Breach of Due Process in Candidate Nomination, Says It Fielded Governorship Candidates in 28 States | The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has denied reports that it failed to field governorship candidates in 12 states ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting it complied with relevant electoral laws and guidelines. The party said it has nominated candidates in all 28 states where governorship elections are scheduled. The denial follows allegations of due-process violations and claims that the party used political negotiations and placeholders in selecting some candidates. The NDC said the reports were false and aimed at undermining its growing political presence. Separately, suspected political thugs attacked the party’s secretariat in Emohua, Rivers State, destroying campaign billboards, banners and other materials. | NDC; INEC | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Presidency: Labour Party’s Datti Baba-Ahmed Declares None of the Major Contenders Will Improve Nigeria, Including Peter Obi | Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, has said none of President Bola Tinubu’s major opponents in the 2027 presidential election has the capacity to improve Nigeria. Speaking on the MicOn Podcast, he said Tinubu, Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar had all, at different times, been associated with political parties and administrations responsible for Nigeria’s current challenges. Baba-Ahmed urged Tinubu to prepare to leave office but argued that his major challengers would not deliver the change Nigeria needs. He described himself as the only leading contender who had never belonged to a ruling party and advocated for a “new Nigeria.” He also criticised Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of weakening political parties, and questioned Atiku’s criticism of the president over his US records. | YUSUF AHMED-DATTI; LABOUR PARTY | VANGUARD | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Foreign Aid Bill: CSOs Reject Proposed NGO Regulator, Urge Senate to Strengthen Existing Agencies | A bill before the Senate seeking to regulate and require disclosure of foreign aid, grants and donations received by NGOs and other entities has triggered opposition from civil society organisations. Sponsored by Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, the bill proposes a Foreign Aid Regulatory Commission with powers to register recipients, demand financial records, conduct audits and inspections, and sanction or suspend non-compliant organisations. The Senate says the legislation is needed to improve transparency, prevent misuse of foreign funds and address potential national security risks. However, CSOs argue that Nigeria already has institutions and systems capable of monitoring foreign funding and that the proposed commission would create overlapping regulations, increase compliance burdens and potentially restrict civic space. They are calling for existing institutions to be strengthened rather than creating a new regulatory body. | FOREIGN AID BILL; SENATE | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ‘Our Votes Must Count’ – Peter Obi Charges INEC to Ensure Credible Election, Calls for Issue-Based Campaigns Ahead of 2027 | NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general election is free, fair, transparent and credible, urging the commission to resist any attempt to manipulate the process in favour of any political party. Speaking in Ogugu, Olamaboro LGA of Kogi State, during the unveiling of Chief Peter Ameh as the NDC Kogi East Senatorial Candidate, Obi said his major concern ahead of the election is not who wins, but whether Nigerians will be able to protect their votes and ensure that their choices are respected. Obi said the country’s worsening hunger and poverty should be central to political discussions, stressing that the next government must address issues including education, insecurity and decent living conditions. He also called on political candidates to run issue-based campaigns without threats or empty promises, while urging Nigerians to elect leaders who can genuinely address their problems. Ameh similarly charged voters to remain vigilant, vote and protect their votes, emphasising that their electoral choices would determine the quality of representation, infrastructure and opportunities available to future generations. | NDC; PETER OBI; INEC; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ‘No Political Relevance’ - Adamawa APC Downplays Binani’s Ex-Campaign DG’s Defection to ADC | The Adamawa State chapter of the APC has dismissed the defection of Mohammed Musa Sani, former Director General of Senator Aisha Binani’s 2023 governorship campaign council, to the ADC, describing him as politically irrelevant and insisting that his exit would have no impact on the party. APC State Secretary Victor Dogo said the party remains united and focused on preparations for the 2027 general elections. The ADC, however, welcomed Sani’s defection, describing it as a significant addition to its growing political movement in Adamawa. The party said his decision reflects growing confidence in the ADC as a platform for political participation, unity and change, particularly given his previous role in Binani’s governorship campaign. | DEFECTION; APC; ADC; ADAMAWA STATE | ||||
| THE GUARDIAN | 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Osun 2026: APC, Oyebamiji Fail to Challenge Adeleke’s Victory as 21-Day Petition Window Expires | The APC and its 2026 Osun governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), have not filed a petition challenging Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the August 15 governorship election, following the expiration of the 21-day window for filing election petitions. The Election Petition Tribunal in Osogbo reportedly received no petition from the APC, Oyebamiji or any of the other defeated candidates before the deadline expired on Saturday. Adeleke, who contested on the Accord platform, won the election with 511,067 votes, defeating Oyebamiji of the APC, who scored 444,815 votes. The APC had initially constituted a legal team to review the election results and consider its options, but no petition was ultimately filed. Oyebamiji had also congratulated Adeleke on his re-election on August 29. | OSUN 2026 | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | ICC Dismisses Anonymous Petition Seeking Probe Into Nigeria’s Kidnapping Crisis | The International Criminal Court (ICC) has dismissed an anonymous petition seeking an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to systemic kidnappings in Nigeria. The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber II dismissed the application at the threshold, ruling that it was not properly before the court and lacked a legal basis. The Federal Government welcomed the dismissal but criticised the initial processing of the petition, arguing that it bypassed established procedures. Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi stressed that the ICC Prosecutor, a State Party referral, or a UN Security Council referral are the proper channels for triggering such proceedings. He also emphasised the principle of complementarity, noting that Nigerian authorities retain primary jurisdiction over domestic crimes such as kidnapping and banditry. The government clarified that no ICC investigation has been opened against Nigeria and no adverse finding has been made against the Nigerian government or its institutions. | CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY; ICC; FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: Obi, Falana, Civil Society Raise Alarm Over Electoral Credibility | With the 2027 general elections approaching, political parties, civil society organisations and experts have raised concerns about the credibility of the electoral process, citing risks of manipulation, violence, intimidation, political interference and weaknesses in INEC’s systems. Peter Obi urged Nigerians to protect their votes at polling units, arguing that stronger voter coordination could prevent intimidation. He also raised concerns about potential glitches with INEC’s IReV platform. His running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, urged voters to prioritise competent leadership, while dismissing claims that control of more than 30 states would guarantee victory in the presidential election. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana warned that Nigeria’s democracy is at a critical juncture, highlighting political violence, flawed party primaries, weak electoral credibility and declining judicial integrity. He called for INEC’s autonomy, stronger action against vote buying and violence, and greater citizen participation in protecting democracy. The ADC said it would participate fully in the 2027 elections despite concerns about INEC’s preparations, while demanding transparency over the redeployment of electoral officers and recruitment of ad hoc staff. HURIWA, meanwhile, questioned Nyesom Wike’s claim that he could deliver Rivers State and the FCT to President Bola Tinubu, arguing that such declarations could undermine public confidence in electoral neutrality. Communication scholars also urged INEC to ensure its digital systems are reliable and accessible, particularly in rural areas. Meanwhile, the Movement for Credible Elections has begun consultations with opposition parties and presidential candidates in an effort to build a common platform and identify a possible consensus opposition candidate. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | PFIPC Scandal: Court Grants Adeyemi Access to Lawyers, Defers Bail Application | The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted detained Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi access to his lawyers in the ongoing PFIPC controversy but declined to order his release on bail. Justice Obiora Egwuatu directed the police and Attorney-General of the Federation to respond to Adeyemi’s fundamental rights suit within 72 hours. His bail request and demand for access to a doctor will be considered after the responses, with the case adjourned to September 9. Adeyemi is being investigated over alleged forgery, fraud and impersonation linked to the disputed PFIPC, while he denies the allegations and has called for an independent investigation. | PFIPC SCANDAL | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Defence Minister Accuses El-Rufai of Dividing Kaduna, Praises Uba Sani’s Reconciliation Efforts | Minister of Defence Christopher Musa has accused former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai of deepening divisions in Kaduna during his tenure. Musa alleged that insecurity and policies under El-Rufai created divisions between northern and southern Kaduna communities, while also accusing the former governor of paying bandits and demolishing properties over personal disagreements. He praised Governor Uba Sani for efforts to restore unity and freedom of movement in the state. | MINISTER OF DEFENCE; NASIR EL-RUFAI; KADUNA STTAE | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Oyo Assembly Approves N210bn Supplementary Budget, Raises 2026 Budget to N1.1tn | The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved a N210 billion supplementary appropriation for the 2026 fiscal year, raising the state’s total approved budgetary provision from N892.09 billion to N1.102 trillion. The approval was granted during plenary on Thursday following the consideration and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Finance, Appropriation and State Economic Planning on the Oyo State Supplementary Finance Bill, 2026. The committee said the bill was subjected to detailed scrutiny and considered clause by clause, with its recommendations guided by submissions from the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and projections in the state’s Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The additional N210 billion is to be sourced from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of Oyo State for the financial year ending December 31, 2026. The supplementary funding is intended to provide additional resources for critical government programmes, infrastructure, public works and other priority projects, as well as enable the state to meet emerging financial obligations and additional expenditure requirements before the end of the fiscal year. The House subsequently adopted the committee’s recommendations and passed the supplementary finance bill, pushing Oyo’s approved 2026 financial provision above the N1 trillion mark. | OYO STATE; 2026 SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET | VANGUARD | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | NDC: Obi, Kwankwaso Assure Supporters of Vote Protection, Warn Against Intimidation Ahead of 2027 | Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has assured supporters that they would not be intimidated at polling units during the 2027 general elections and urged Nigerians to take responsibility for protecting their votes. Speaking in Port Harcourt, Obi said the 2027 elections would be harder to manipulate than the 2023 polls. He also raised concerns about possible manipulation or technical failures on INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV), saying his party would have mechanisms to counter such challenges. NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to vote for competent leadership and dismissed the belief that the ruling party’s control of more than 30 states would guarantee victory in the presidential election. He cited the defeat of incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 as an example that control of states does not automatically determine presidential election outcomes. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS; NDC | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Governor Fubara Describes Rivers’ N1.85tn 2026 Budget as “Breath of Fresh Air,” Signs Bill Into Law | Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has signed the state’s 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, describing it as a “breath of fresh air” and expressing optimism that it would usher in a new phase of development and cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government. The budget, christened the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,” was passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly earlier on Thursday. Fubara had presented a proposed fiscal estimate of N1.854 trillion in July, representing a 24.5% increase over the revised 2025 financial figures. Fubara said the signing marked the beginning of a healthier relationship with the State House of Assembly and assured lawmakers of his administration’s commitment to the progress and development of Rivers State. He also acknowledged the role of former governor and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in facilitating the meeting and developments that led to the passage and signing of the budget. However, the Assembly said it amended some provisions of the governor’s proposal. Speaker Martin Amaewhule disclosed that lawmakers reduced the proposed N6 billion allocation to PAMO University of Medical Sciences, citing the university management’s failure to adequately explain the utilisation of previous funds and its absence from an Assembly hearing. Part of the reduced allocation was redirected to the Rivers State Primary Healthcare Development Board as part of the Assembly’s oversight responsibility. | RIVERS STATE | VANGAURD | |||
| VANGUARD | 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026 | Niger Coup: FG Denies Claims of Nigeria, ECOWAS Support, Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy | The Federal Government has denied claims that Nigeria and ECOWAS supported the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sola Enikanolaiye described the claims as false and deliberate misinformation, reaffirming Nigeria’s opposition to military coups and unconstitutional changes of government. He said Nigeria remains committed to democracy, constitutional order and regional stability, and urged the public to disregard misleading narratives circulating online. | NIGER COUP | VANGUARD | |||
| THIS DAY | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | ‘They Will Come for My Head’ – Wike Says He’ll Be First Target of Atiku, Obi If Tinubu Loses in 2027 | FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said he expects to become a major target of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi if President Bola Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election, citing his strong support for Tinubu’s re-election. Wike said, “I will be the first politician that Atiku, Obi will hunt for his head,” adding, “I know they will come for my head.” He insisted that the possibility of political retaliation would not weaken his support for Tinubu, saying his focus remains on securing the president’s re-election. Wike also described himself as the “General Commander of the Political Infantry” in Rivers State and the FCT, while defending his continued political involvement in Rivers State. He criticised the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), accusing it of becoming politically partisan and using its 2026 conference as a platform for opposition politicians. He also attacked former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, questioned his suitability for the vice presidency, and criticised the governors of Imo and Kwara states over their alleged opposition to him. On the inclusion of individuals facing EFCC investigations in Tinubu’s 2027 campaign structure, Wike argued that being investigated or charged does not amount to conviction and should not automatically prevent anyone from participating in political campaigns. | NYESOM WIKE; 2027; NDC; ADC; APC | THIS DAY | |||
| VANGUARD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Former Reps Member Petitions EFCC, Gives 14-Day Ultimatum to Reopen Atiku Financial Crimes Case | Former House of Representatives member and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) member Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma has petitioned the EFCC, demanding that it reopen and prosecute alleged financial crimes involving former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar. Through his lawyer, Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, SAN, Agbonayinma gave the EFCC 14 days to act on the petition, which references a 2006 EFCC report and a 2010 US Senate subcommittee report that he says raised allegations of corruption, money laundering and other financial crimes against Atiku. He argued that the EFCC failed to prosecute the former vice president after he left office, when constitutional immunity no longer applied. The petitioner warned that he would take legal action against the EFCC if it fails to act within the 14-day period. | ATIKU ABUBAKAR; FINANCIAL CRIMES; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | PFIPC Probe: Reps Panel Exonerates Gbajabiamila, Uncovers Forged Presidential, National Assembly Documents | The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) has preliminarily exonerated Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, saying it found no evidence that he authorised, established or participated in the organisation. The committee said documents allegedly linking Gbajabiamila and the Presidency to the PFIPC—including an appointment letter—were forged or falsely attributed to the State House. The committee also uncovered an alleged fake presidential Executive Order, a fabricated National Assembly document, forged State House correspondence, unauthorised occupation of a Federal Secretariat office, about 39 purported employees, 58 bank accounts linked to the alleged principal figure, and an alleged ₦400 million transaction. It said investigations into individuals and government institutions involved are continuing, with a final report expected to determine responsibility and possible prosecution or sanctions. | PFIPC SCANDAL | VANGUARD | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Adeleke, Accord Warn Members Against Anti-Party Activities, Threaten Sanctions | Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and leaders of the Accord party have warned members against anti-party activities, saying severe sanctions will be imposed on anyone found supporting candidates of other political parties. At a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by Adeleke, the party cited reports of some Accord members allegedly backing legislative candidates of the PDP, APM, APP and APC. The meeting resolved disagreements surrounding the selection of legislative candidates and directed members to unite behind the party’s candidates ahead of the 2027 polls. The party leadership also ordered the activation of monitoring mechanisms to identify members involved in anti-party activities and a committee to intervene in constituencies where such cases are reported. Adeleke urged party candidates to engage all segments of the party and run an inclusive campaign, while commending members for their support during the recent electoral process. | OSUN STATE; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGAURD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027 Elections: PDP Calls Out Borno State Commissioner Over Reported Threat Against Non-APC Supporters | The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned a reported threat by Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, to flog people who refuse to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. PDP National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Haruna Mohammed described the reported remark as unbecoming of a public officer, arguing that threats and inflammatory rhetoric could alienate voters and potentially work against the APC at the polls. He also warned that such statements could heighten tensions and undermine the peaceful conduct of the 2027 elections, particularly in Borno State, which he described as politically and security-wise fragile. The PDP called on political parties and their supporters to reject violence and provocative rhetoric. The party also urged the Borno State governor to take action against the commissioner, while advising its members not to retaliate with inflammatory statements. | BORNO STATE; APC; PDP | VANGUARD | |||
| LEADERSHIP NEWS | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | Court Nullifies APC Zamfara North Senatorial Primaries, Orders Fresh Exercise Within 14 Days | A Federal High Court in Gusau has nullified the APC’s May 19, 2026 primary election for Zamfara North Senatorial District, ruling that no valid primary was conducted. Justice Hassan Dikko ruled that the process was marred by overvoting and non-compliance with the APC Constitution, party guidelines and the Electoral Act, following a suit by senatorial aspirant Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi against the emergence of Senator Sahabi Ya’u Kaura as the party’s 2027 candidate. The court ordered the APC to conduct a fresh primary within 14 days, meaning the exercise must be held by September 14, 2026. While Shinkafi welcomed the ruling and urged strict compliance with electoral rules, Ya’u’s counsel said the legal team would study the judgment before deciding whether to appeal. | APC PRIMARIES | LEADERSHIP NEWS | |||
| VANGUARD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | Plateau: Mutfwang Appoints Assembly Service Commission Chairman, 14 Liaison Officers | Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has approved fresh appointments to strengthen the state’s governance structure and improve service delivery. The appointments include Rt. Hon. Titus Alams as Chairman of the Plateau State House of Assembly Service Commission, Mrs. Sarah Buge as Executive Secretary of the Plateau Water Sector Regulatory Commission, Mrs. Felicia Raymond Dabo as Commissioner II of the Local Government Service Commission, and Hon. Kenpiya Best as Senior Special Assistant on the School Feeding Programme. The governor also appointed 14 Liaison Officers across various parts of the state, including Jos East, Qua’an Pan North, Mangu North East, Barkin Ladi, Jos North North, Jos North West, Langtang North North, Langtang North Central, Langtang South, Jos South, Kanke and Pankshin North. The appointments, according to the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, are intended to consolidate the administration’s governance structure and ensure effective implementation of government policies and programmes across sectors and local government areas. Mutfwang congratulated the appointees and charged them to demonstrate accountability, transparency, professionalism, dedication and commitment in carrying out their responsibilities. | PLATEAU STATE; APPOINTMENTS | VANGAURD | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | Kano: Governor Yusuf Condemns Rising Insecurity, Vows Decisive Action After Bandit Attacks in Five LGAs | Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has condemned recent bandit attacks in several parts of the state, including Chiromawa, Garum-Mallam, Beli in Rogo, Bebeji and Gwarzo Local Government Areas. The attacks reportedly left at least five people dead, including the APC chairman in Rogo, while communities affected by the violence suffered significant disruption. Governor Yusuf described the attacks as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, and assured affected residents that his administration would take decisive measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to prevent further attacks and protect lives and property. He directed authorities to strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid-response mechanisms in vulnerable areas. The governor also urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel and provide credible information that could help identify and apprehend the perpetrators. He commended security agencies for their efforts and called for sustained intelligence-led operations across the state. Yusuf expressed condolences to families of those killed, prayed for the recovery of the injured and the safe return of abducted persons, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security across Kano. | RISING INSECURITY | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| VANGUARD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Army Begins Training, Charges Troops to Uphold Rights and Political Neutrality Ahead of Elections | The Nigerian Army has intensified preparations for the 2027 general elections by sensitising personnel who may be deployed for election duties on lawful conduct, professionalism, political neutrality and respect for fundamental human rights. The initiative, led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Adebayo Babalola, is designed to ensure troops understand their constitutional responsibilities and operate responsibly before, during and after the elections. The sensitisation seminar, held at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration in Lagos, focused on the legal framework governing military involvement in election security, including rules relating to arrests, searches, use of force and interactions with civilians. The Army stressed that personnel cannot use ignorance of the law as an excuse for misconduct and urged commanders to ensure troops deployed for electoral duties are properly prepared. The development comes alongside broader efforts by the police, military and other security agencies to strengthen inter-agency coordination and election security ahead of 2027. Recent multi-agency training has emphasised professionalism, neutrality and collaboration across the pre-election period, election day and the post-election phase, with the aim of protecting voters and maintaining public confidence in the electoral process. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 | ‘We’re Not Stealing Venezuelan Oil’: US Energy Secretary Defends Multibillion-Dollar Deal | US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has dismissed claims that the United States is “stealing Venezuelan oil” following the signing of multibillion-dollar energy deals giving US companies access to a significant portion of Venezuela’s oil resources. Wright said, “We’re stealing Venezuelan oil. Of course, that’s not true at all,” arguing that the oil remains owned by the Venezuelan people while private companies provide investment and technology to develop it. The deal covers more than 65 billion barrels of oil, with Caracas projecting $209 billion in earnings over 25 years. Wright also stressed the need to restore Venezuela’s electricity infrastructure to support oil production. On elections, he said Venezuela’s return to democratic elections remains part of the plan but argued that reforms and economic stabilisation must come first. US President Donald Trump has said Venezuela is “not ready yet” for elections following the removal of Nicolás Maduro in January. | U.S; VENEZUELA | VANGUARD | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Controversy Erupts as Akwa Ibom State Government Declares Akpabio ‘Acting President’ in Deleted Facebook Post | Controversy has erupted after the Akwa Ibom State Government described Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the “Acting President of Nigeria” in a post on its official Facebook page during his visit to Uyo on Tuesday. The post, which announced Akpabio’s arrival for the official reception of Ibom Air’s newly acquired Airbus A220-300, was later edited to remove the controversial description. The development comes amid President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing three-week vacation in Europe and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent trip to Angola to represent him at an African Union summit. Shettima returned to Nigeria on Monday, raising renewed attention to the constitutional procedure governing presidential authority when both the president and vice president are temporarily absent. Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution provides for the president to transmit a written declaration to the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation or otherwise unable to perform his functions. It does not, however, ordinarily make the Senate president acting president simply because both the president and vice president are out of the country. Section 146 concerns succession where the offices of both president and vice president become vacant. Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Information Aniekan Umanah subsequently distanced the state government from the description, saying it was likely an error by the social media handler. He insisted that “there’s nothing like that (acting president) in the country” and said nobody authorised the reference. Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom, was in Uyo as part of activities marking the state’s 39th anniversary and the arrival of Ibom Air’s latest aircraft. | AKWA IBOM STATE | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Court Adjourns Atiku’s Suit Challenging Tinubu’s 2027 Eligibility to September 28 | A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s suit challenging President Bola Tinubu’s eligibility to contest the 2027 presidential election to September 28, 2026. The adjournment followed a dispute over the service of the originating summons on Tinubu. Atiku’s counsel said they had been unable to personally serve the President and sought an order allowing substituted service. Tinubu’s lawyer, however, offered to accept the process on his client’s behalf but was asked to provide evidence that he had the President’s mandate to do so. The court subsequently adjourned the matter. Separately, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) called on Tinubu to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race over allegations linked to a U.S. drug-related case. The party cited Tinubu’s reported legal efforts to prevent the release of documents sought from the FBI and DEA, arguing that the matter has heightened public interest ahead of the 2027 election. | ATIKU ABUBAKAR; FEDERAL HIGH COURT; PRESIDENT TINUBU | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: PRP Presidential Candidate Donald Duke Raises Alarm Over Growing Political Desperation Ahead of Elections | PRP presidential candidate Donald Duke has alleged that some desperate politicians are resorting to human sacrifice and other dangerous practices in their quest to win the 2027 elections. Speaking in Abuja during an engagement with the Savannah Centre’s Council of the Wise, Duke warned that political desperation could fuel violence and plunge the country into crisis. He also called for a fundamental reform of Nigeria’s electoral system, particularly the process of appointing INEC leadership and officials, to ensure greater independence from political influence. Duke further advocated tougher sanctions for electoral violence and other actions that undermine democracy. Former Chief Justice of Nigeria Olukayode Ariwoola, who led the delegation, urged presidential candidates to conduct campaigns without hate speech, inflammatory rhetoric and statements capable of triggering violence. He also called on candidates and their supporters to comply with INEC rules and guidelines. | PRP; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Police Probe Three Political Actors Over Alleged Inciting Comments Ahead of 2027 | The Nigeria Police Force has launched investigations into alleged inciting remarks by Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development Sainna Buba, Kuje Area Council Chairman Danjuma Shekwolo and Osun East Senator Francis Fadahunsi. The police said the comments, particularly those relating to the electoral process, constitute a criminal offence. Buba was accused of threatening residents who refused to support the APC in 2027, while Shekwolo reportedly warned Kuje residents to vote for the APC or leave the council. Fadahunsi was also questioned over alleged threats against Accord Party members ahead of the Osun governorship election. The Force said the cases were still under investigation and that the outcomes would be made public, while urging political actors to desist from inflammatory statements and members of the public to provide evidence that could support prosecution. | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Atiku Pledges Full Local Government Autonomy, Direct Access to Federation Funds If Elected | ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has pledged to enforce the Supreme Court’s 2024 judgment granting financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local governments if elected president in 2027. He promised to ensure that local government allocations from the Federation Account are paid directly to councils rather than routed through state governments. Atiku also accused the Tinubu administration of failing to enforce the judgment, alleging that state governors’ control of local government funds was being tolerated for political advantage ahead of the 2027 election. He argued that direct access to funds would improve grassroots development, accountability, public services and local governments’ capacity to address security and poverty. President Bola Tinubu had previously warned governors that he could issue an executive order to enforce direct funding of local governments if states failed to comply with the Supreme Court ruling. | ATIKU ABUBAKAR; 2027 | DAILY TRUST | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Governor Otti Mobilises Labour Party Stakeholders for Second-Term Bid, Urges Unity in Abia | Abia State Governor Alex Otti has begun mobilising Labour Party (LP) stakeholders in preparation for the 2027 elections, urging party leaders and members in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, to unite behind his administration and its development agenda. Speaking through the party’s National Vice Chairman, South-East, Ishmeal Onuoha, at the Nsulu Labour Party Stakeholders’ Summit, Otti called for inclusive leadership, peaceful collaboration and greater participation in party activities. He urged stakeholders to move beyond internal differences and work collectively to sustain the administration’s projects and policies. The summit, themed “Sustaining the Transformation: A United Labour Party in Nsulu for 2027 and Beyond,” focused heavily on building a formidable grassroots political structure ahead of the elections. Otti’s Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, said the immediate task was to mobilise support for the governor’s second-term bid and other LP candidates, while announcing the planned inauguration of the Nsulu Labour Party Stakeholders’ Forum. LP state chairman Peter Azubuike and leaders of Otti’s political structure, Abia Arise, also called for greater cooperation among the three political blocs in Isiala Ngwa North – Nsulu, Ngwaukwu and Ntigha, to strengthen the party’s electoral chances. Stakeholders cited projects including the Umuomaiukwu Smart School and Abia International Airport as reasons for supporting the administration and urged members to commence grassroots mobilisation, including door-to-door campaigns, ahead of the 2027 polls. | LP; ABIA STATE; GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| PREMIUM TIMES | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Kwara Assembly Declares Two Lawmakers’ Seats Vacant Over APC-to-PDP Defection | The Kwara State House of Assembly has declared the seats of Saba Gideon (Edu Constituency) and Olusola Odetundun (Irepodun Constituency) vacant following their defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The decision followed a request from APC State Chairman Sunday Fagbemi, who asked the Speaker, Salihu Yakubu-Danladi, to declare the seats vacant in line with Section 109(1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution. During debate on the request, the House Leader, Abdulkadir Magaji, argued that lawmakers elected on a party platform are constitutionally required to remain members of that party during their tenure, except under circumstances recognised by the Constitution, including a division within the party. The APC maintained that there was no division within the party to justify the lawmakers’ defections. The two lawmakers are reportedly seeking re-election to their respective seats on the PDP platform in 2027. | KWARA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY | PREMIUM TIMES | |||
| VANGUARD | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Xenophobia: Oyo Receives 70 Indigenes Evacuated From South Africa, Begins Reintegration | The Oyo State Government has received 70 indigenes evacuated from South Africa following xenophobic attacks and difficult conditions affecting Nigerians and other foreign nationals, and has commenced efforts to reintegrate them into their communities. The returnees comprise 42 adults and 28 minors who were forced to leave behind livelihoods, businesses and personal plans amid the attacks. Receiving them on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde, the Executive Assistant on Migration and Homeland Security, ACG Segun Adegoke (rtd), said the government viewed their return not as a failure but as the beginning of a new chapter. Adegoke said the state government was assessing the returnees’ individual circumstances, health needs, skills and experiences abroad to determine appropriate areas of support and help them become economically productive. The returnees also underwent basic medical checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar screening. He encouraged them to use the skills, knowledge, networks and entrepreneurial experience gained abroad to rebuild their lives and contribute to the development of their communities. He also cautioned young Nigerians against irregular and dangerous migration, stressing that migration itself is not the problem, but unsafe routes and circumstances. The state government said it would continue to support safe and regular migration while creating opportunities for residents to prosper within Oyo State. Some of the returnees described their evacuation as painful, particularly because they had to abandon their livelihoods and businesses in South Africa. | XENOPHOBIA; OYO STATE; SOUTH AFRICA | VANGUARD | |||
| VANGUARD | 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026 | Iran-US Conflict Escalates as Tehran Strikes US Bases in Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq, Warns Allies of Wider Retaliation | The conflict between Iran and the United States has escalated sharply, with Iran launching missile and drone attacks against US military interests across the Middle East and warning that countries supporting Washington could face wider retaliation. Iranian media reported that Tehran targeted two US bases in Jordan, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed attacks on US positions in Bahrain and Iraq’s Kurdistan region. Jordan said it intercepted 10 Iranian ballistic missiles, while Kuwait also reported responding to Iranian missile and drone attacks. Air raid alerts were heard in Bahrain, a key US ally in the Gulf. The latest Iranian strikes followed renewed US attacks on Iranian targets, including sites near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities reported casualties from the US strikes, including seven people killed and eight wounded in Khuzestan, while Iran’s Red Crescent said four people, including a child, were killed and more than 50 wounded by shrapnel in Hormozgan. US President Donald Trump said the American strikes were carried out in retaliation for what Washington described as an Iranian attempt to mine the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on a US military base in Jordan. He warned Iran that any further retaliation would trigger attacks at a “much harder and higher” level. Iran, however, vowed to respond forcefully. Revolutionary Guards officials warned that countries cooperating with US forces would face “more severe, more widespread and destructive responses.” Tehran has also continued to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed, while Washington maintains a counter-blockade of Iranian ports. The escalation comes after a fragile ceasefire collapsed following attacks involving commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies flowed before the conflict. Despite the worsening confrontation, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran remained prepared to respond to any US move toward a diplomatic agreement, while warning that renewed US pressure and threats could derail diplomacy. | U.S-IRAN CONFLICT | VANGUARD | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Single Candidacy: Opposition Begins Coalition Talks Ahead of 2027 Amid Fresh ADC Rift Over Atiku | Nigeria’s opposition parties have begun formal discussions aimed at producing a single presidential candidate and a common platform for the 2027 elections. The initiative, led by the G100 and the House of Representatives Minority Caucus, brought together representatives of several opposition parties, although Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi were absent. The coalition is proposing a four-year transition government and national reset programme, with five working groups expected to develop a framework covering opposition unity, political reforms and the emergence of a common presidential candidate within four weeks. However, the process faces an immediate challenge: a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, has rejected the proposed coalition and disowned Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate. The faction says the ADC will contest the 2027 election independently and has warned Atiku against using the party's name. Former Cross River State governor Donald Duke also argued that the opposition has enough combined electoral strength to defeat the APC if it unites, but warned that numerical strength alone will not be enough without effective structures for mobilising voters and protecting votes. | OPPOSITION; 2027 | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | “Profoundly Embarrassing”: Obi Condemns Tinubu’s Bid to Restrict Release of FBI Records | Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Tinubu over a reported legal effort to restrict the release of FBI, U.S. Department of Justice and DEA records relating to past investigations allegedly connected to Tinubu. The criticism follows a 16-page court filing in which Tinubu’s lawyers reportedly argued that releasing the records could violate the President’s privacy rights. Obi described the move as “profoundly embarrassing,” arguing that public officials should be prepared to address legitimate questions about their past rather than shield potentially uncomfortable information from public scrutiny. The controversy centres on records linked to historical allegations, including a 1993 U.S. civil forfeiture case involving about $460,000, which Tinubu has denied wrongdoing in. The FBI has acknowledged having responsive records but has sought to keep some materials from public disclosure, citing law-enforcement exemptions and concerns about sensitive information. A U.S. judge has allowed some materials to be submitted privately for judicial review. Meanwhile, Reno Omokri defended Tinubu, arguing that the existence of FBI records does not automatically mean they are criminal records, as law-enforcement databases can contain non-criminal personal, financial and background information. A U.S.-based lobbying firm, however, has alleged that the records relate to a criminal investigation into drug trafficking, claims that remain part of the ongoing dispute. | PRESIDENT TINUBU; PETER OBI; FBI | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Financial Autonomy: Edo NBA Accuses Assembly of Undermining Judicial Independence, Threatens Legal Action | The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, has vowed to challenge the Edo State House of Assembly’s amendment of the Financial Autonomy Laws 2023, which was signed into law by Governor Monday Okpebholo despite opposition from JUSUN and PASAN. The newly inaugurated NBA Benin Chairman, Omorodion Omogui, argued that the amendment undermines the financial independence of the judiciary and legislature by placing them under greater executive influence. He said the amendment conflicts with provisions of the 1999 Constitution, particularly Sections 4, 5, 6 and 121(3). Omogui also pledged that the NBA would promote the rule of law and hold government accountable, while expanding support and welfare programmes for young, elderly and ailing lawyers. | EDO STATE; NBA; FINANCIAL AUTONOMY | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Rivers Politics: Wike, Fubara Meet Amid Reconciliation Uncertainty | FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara met in Port Harcourt on Sunday, signalling renewed efforts to consolidate the reconciliation between their political camps after months of conflict. The meeting, their first since Fubara withdrew his bid for a second term in 2027, came amid reports that reconciliation efforts had stalled. Fubara was accompanied by former APC Deputy National Chairman Sam Sam Jaja, while Wike was joined by APC governorship candidate Kingsley Chinda and reconciliation committee chairman Magnus Abe. The political rift between Wike and Fubara had triggered a prolonged crisis in Rivers State, including impeachment proceedings against Fubara and President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency. The two camps later reached a truce, with Fubara joining the APC and aligning with the Wike-backed Rainbow Coalition. | RIVERS STATE | DAILY TRUST | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Northern Youths Reject Sheriff’s Appointment to APC Campaign Council | The Northern Youths Frontiers (NYF) has rejected the appointment of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as the North-East Zonal Coordinator of the APC’s 2027 Presidential Campaign Council, citing concerns over the political and reputational implications of the appointment. The group argued that campaign officials are part of the public face of the Tinubu/Kashim campaign and should command broad public confidence, particularly in the North-East, where the insurgency has had significant social and economic consequences. It urged the APC to reconsider Sheriff’s appointment, while noting that allegations against him remain matters for the appropriate legal institutions. Meanwhile, the APC defended the inclusion of former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Betta Edu in the campaign council, saying she has not been found guilty of any offence. The party noted that the EFCC investigation involving Edu remains unresolved and argued that she could ultimately be cleared. | NORTHERN NIGERIA; APC CAMPAIGN COUNCIL | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THE GUARDIAN | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | IPOB Gives FG 14-Day Ultimatum to Hear Kanu’s Appeal, Threatens Election Boycott | IPOB has issued the Federal Government a 14-day ultimatum to ensure the listing and hearing of Nnamdi Kanu’s pending appeal against his conviction and life sentence. The group, through its Head of Directorate of State, Mazi Chris Nwaogu, accused the Federal Government of delaying the appeal by failing to file its respondent’s brief and take steps to have the case listed. IPOB warned that failure to act within 14 days could lead it to mobilise for a boycott of the 2027 general elections across the South-East and other areas it refers to as Biafraland. Nwaogu also criticised the judiciary’s handling of Kanu’s case and challenged the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the 2022 Court of Appeal judgment that had discharged and acquitted Kanu. | IPOB; 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | THE GUARDIAN | |||
| THIS DAY | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: ADC Defends Atiku’s Plan to Reintroduce Petrol Subsidy, Rejects Presidency’s Criticism | The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has defended presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s proposal to reintroduce a form of petrol subsidy if elected in 2027, arguing that it would differ from the opaque subsidy system of the past. The party said the proposed intervention would be a capped and traceable production incentive for domestic refineries, aimed at bringing petrol prices down, reducing imports, supporting local refining and improving energy security. It rejected the Presidency’s criticism, including an estimated N19.1 trillion cost, arguing that the economic burden of high fuel prices on transport, food and production should also be considered. An ADC national leader, Chike Okogwu, separately proposed a technology-driven subsidy system using digital identity and payment infrastructure, including BVN-linked payments, GPS tracking and electronic records to make beneficiaries and subsidised fuel volumes traceable. | PETROL SUBSIDY | THIS DAY | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: INEC Denies Altering NDC Candidate List, Launches Audit of Disputed Entries | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied allegations by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) that it altered the party’s candidate list for the 2027 general election. INEC said candidate nomination and substitution are the responsibility of political parties, not the commission. It explained that parties upload candidates through an electronic nomination portal using credentials issued to them, with activities recorded digitally. Following the NDC’s claims that some of its candidates, particularly for Anambra State House of Assembly seats, were removed and replaced with unauthorised names, INEC said it would conduct an internal audit of its digital records and access logs to establish how the disputed entries appeared. The commission also asked the NDC to provide evidence and identify any officials allegedly involved. | INEC; NDC | DAILY TRUST | |||
| THIS DAY | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Wanted Ex-Minister Timipre Sylva Resigns from APC Amid Coup Plot Allegation | Former Bayelsa State Governor and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the party of abandoning its founding ideals and the APC-led Federal Government of failing Nigerians. Sylva, a founding member of the APC, submitted his resignation electronically to the party’s Ward 4 chairman in Brass LGA, Bayelsa State. He said the decision followed consultations with family, associates and supporters, and criticised what he described as the party leadership’s belief that “all is fair in politics.” He also accused the Federal Government of disappointing the majority of Nigerians and said he expected citizens to use the next election to change the country’s political direction. The resignation comes as Sylva faces official pressure. He has been declared wanted by the EFCC over an alleged $14.86 million fraud case and is also wanted in connection with allegations arising from a reported coup plot, which he has denied. Sylva accused the EFCC of becoming partisan and said he was prepared for what he described as a potential “witch-hunt” following his resignation. | ALLEGED COUP PLOT; RESIGNATION; APC | THIS DAY | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | 2027: Akwa Ibom Police Ban Unauthorised Political Rallies, Campaigns, Demand Prior Notice | The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has directed political parties, support groups and other organisations to formally notify the Command before holding rallies, campaigns, processions or other large political gatherings. Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare said the measure is aimed at preventing clashes, improving security planning, managing traffic and protecting participants and the public. The Police warned that thuggery, intimidation, destruction of property, unlawful road blockages, possession of offensive weapons and other acts capable of disrupting public order would attract sanctions. | AKWA IBOM STATE; POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS; 2027 | DAILY TRUST | |||
| DAILY TRUST | 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 | Insecurity: Gunmen Kill APC Ward Chairman, Abduct Three in Kano Community | Gunmen attacked Rantan village in Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State on Sunday night, killing two people and abducting three others. The victims included the APC chairman of Rantan Ward, Alhaji Buba Garba, and his neighbour, Sulaiman Aliko, who was shot while attempting to help. The attackers also abducted the wife of the slain chairman and two children of a local businessman. The incident occurred barely two days after another attack in neighbouring Garun Malam LGA, where three people were reportedly killed and a traditional ruler abducted before security operatives rescued him. The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, said security agencies had launched operations to track the attackers and prevent further incursions. | APC; KANO STATE; KILLING | DAILY TRUST |